D.C. awaits Hagel's possible book

Now that Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has announced his resignation, official Washington waits for the next step.

The book contract.

Hagel's predecessors at the Pentagon -- Robert Gates and Leon Panetta -- both wrote books that included criticism of the White House, including its tendency to micro-manage.

Over the past two years, the White House had its problems with Hagel, and vice-versa. That's what led to this week's ouster.

Even if Hagel writes another critical book, however, remember one thing: Obama and his top aides are also going to get chances to write their own books as well.