Politics·4/22/2026AI summary Navy Secretary John Phelan Departs Abruptly Amid Pentagon Leadership Shakeup
Navy Secretary John Phelan has departed his position unexpectedly, the Pentagon announced Wednesday, becoming the first head of a military service to leave during President Trump's second term. Undersecretary Hung Cao, a 25-year Navy combat veteran who ran unsuccessful Senate and House campaigns in Virginia, will serve as acting secretary. The departure comes amid ongoing leadership upheaval at the Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has fired multiple top generals and admirals since taking office.