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Trump has nominated acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao for the role permanently. The move comes as the Navy faces operational strain, political scrutiny and crew welfare concerns.
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Washington,UPDATED: Sep 2, 2026 07:38 IST
US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he is nominating acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao for the post on a permanent basis, as concerns grow over pressure on the US Navy during the Iran war.
Cao, a Navy combat veteran, has been serving as acting Navy secretary since John Phelan left the role unexpectedly and without explanation in late April. His nomination comes at a time when some lawmakers, including Democrats in Congress, have raised concerns that the Navy has been stretched too far.
Announcing the decision on social media, Trump wrote, "I am pleased to nominate a true WARRIOR," and urged the Senate "to confirm this Warfighter, ASAP." Cao responded on social media, calling it the "honour of a lifetime to lead the great warriors of the Navy and Marine Corps team."
Unlike Phelan, who had not served in the military or held a civilian leadership role in the service, Cao spent 25 years in the Navy as a special operations officer. He later served with SEAL teams and special forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Before taking over as acting Navy secretary, he had served as Navy undersecretary.
Cao's nomination comes amid scrutiny over the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier's nine-month deployment in support of the Iran war, which has included a record uninterrupted period at sea. Concerns over the deployment increased after reports of worsening mental health among the crew and shortages of supplies, including food and hygiene products. Several Democratic lawmakers, including Senators Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut and Ruben Gallego of Arizona, have sought accountability from the Pentagon over conditions aboard the ship.
Cao has also backed the return to duty of service members who refused a Biden-era COVID-19 vaccine mandate. He has also said he had no problem with the Navy's Blue Angels flying so low over a crowded Florida beach in July that chairs and tents were sent flying.
The nomination has come during a period of upheaval in the top ranks of the US military. In the latest development, Army Secretary Dan Driscoll submitted his resignation this week amid widespread reports of tension between him and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. Trump's move to nominate Cao permanently places an experienced Navy officer at the centre of the service as it faces operational strain and political scrutiny.
With PTI Inputs
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Published By:
India Today Web Desk
Published On:
Sep 2, 2026 07:38 IST
