WASHINGTON — Navy Secretary John Phelan is stepping down from his position, the Pentagon announced suddenly on Wednesday. He is the first military service head to leave during President Trump’s second term, adding to a series of top defense leaders exiting their posts.
No specific reason was given for Phelan’s unexpected departure, which comes as the Navy enforces a blockade of Iranian ports and targets Tehran-linked ships globally during a fragile ceasefire in the conflict. Undersecretary Hung Cao, a 25-year Navy combat veteran and former congressional candidate in Virginia, will assume the role of acting Navy head in place of Phelan, who was known as a major donor to Trump’s campaign and had a background in private investment.
Phelan’s departure follows recent shakeups in Pentagon leadership, including the firing of various top military officials by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth since last year. The abruptness of Phelan’s exit was highlighted by his recent public appearances and engagements with Navy personnel and lawmakers.
As the Navy faces multiple challenges and maintains active deployments in the Middle East and the Caribbean, Cao’s selection as acting secretary adds intrigue due to his unsuccessful bids for Congress, his stance against military DEI efforts, and his controversial remarks on various issues.
Cao’s background as a Vietnam immigrant, military officer, and academic standout contrasts with Phelan’s history and sets the stage for potential changes in Navy leadership and policy directions under the Trump administration.
The sudden turnover at the top of the Navy suggests a significant shift in its leadership and priorities during a critical juncture in global security and military operations.
