Story perspectives

First Trump-Term Navy Secretary Resigns, Cao Becomes Acting Secretary

4/23/2026

Center

Phelan Resigns

The Pentagon announced the departure without providing a reason, marking the first secretary exit during President Donald Trump's second term.
U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan is leaving the administration immediately, with Undersecretary Hung Cao set to serve as acting secretary.
A wealthy financier and major donor to President Donald Trump, John Phelan was confirmed in March 2025.
He cancelled Constellation-class frigate, promoted “Golden Fleet” battleship, and backed blockade of Iranian ports.

Right

Trump appoints Cao

President Donald Trump appointed refugee veteran Hung Cao, a Vietnamese-born Naval Academy graduate and former undersecretary, as Acting Navy Secretary.
Pentagon confirmed Secretary John C. Phelan’s departure and named Hung Cao as the acting Secretary of the Navy.
John C. Phelan, an art collector and GOP donor, appeared on Jeffrey Epstein’s flight manifest.
Hung Cao, confirmed 52-45, pushes “alpha” leaders while Navy sustains a Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Blindspot

Center coverage emphasized that Phelan’s exit was the first service-secretary departure during President Trump’s second term, a detail not mentioned in Right coverage.
Center coverage also noted the Pentagon’s ongoing senior-leadership turnover, including the recent removal of the Army chief of staff, which Right coverage did not address.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Navy has experienced significant leadership changes, particularly during President Trump's administration. John Phelan, confirmed as Secretary of the Navy in March 2025, faced criticism for his lack of military experience and was removed on April 22, 2026. His successor, Hung Cao, reflects ongoing instability in military governance amid strategic tensions, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.

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Phelan Resigns

The Pentagon announced the departure without providing a reason, marking the first secretary exit during President Donald Trump's second term.
U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan is leaving the administration immediately, with Undersecretary Hung Cao set to serve as acting secretary.
A wealthy financier and major donor to President Donald Trump, John Phelan was confirmed in March 2025.
He cancelled Constellation-class frigate, promoted “Golden Fleet” battleship, and backed blockade of Iranian ports.

1 / 4