Hung Cao Takes Over as Navy Secretary Following John Phelan's Departure
John Phelan's Unexpected Departure
John Phelan has officially stepped down from his role as Navy Secretary, and the transition has been anything but seamless. The focus now shifts to his successor, Hung Cao, a decorated Navy veteran and Vietnamese refugee who has made a name for himself in Virginia's political landscape.
Phelan's Abrupt Exit
The Pentagon revealed on Wednesday that Phelan was "departing the administration, effective immediately," as stated by chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell. This announcement caught many off guard, especially since it came just a day after Phelan had engaged with reporters about the Navy's future plans, including the Golden Fleet and its battleship and frigate initiatives.
Hung Cao Steps In
Hung Cao Takes the Helm
Following Phelan's departure, Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao has assumed the role of acting Secretary. Born on August 3, 1971, Cao has been serving as the 35th Under Secretary of the Navy since October 2025, after being nominated by President Trump in February 2025 and confirmed shortly thereafter.
Cao's Inspiring Journey
From Refugee to Navy Leader
Cao's journey is remarkable. He arrived in the U.S. as a Vietnamese refugee in 1975, later spending time in West Africa before settling in Virginia. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria, a highly competitive academic institution.
Cao was commissioned as a Special Operations Officer specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Deep Sea Diving after attending the United States Naval Academy. Over a distinguished 25-year military career, he served in Special Operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Somalia. When not in combat, he managed the Navy's $140 billion budget at the Pentagon and collaborated with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force and Homeland Security. He holds a Master's degree in physics from the Naval Postgraduate School and has completed fellowships at both MIT and Harvard.
Political Aspirations and Family Life
A Political Journey with Challenges
After retiring from military service, Cao ventured into politics. He ran as a Republican candidate for Virginia's 10th congressional district in 2022 but lost to Jennifer Wexton. He attempted again in 2024 for the U.S. Senate seat held by Democrat Tim Kaine, focusing on border security and his immigrant background. Despite receiving Donald Trump's endorsement, he was unsuccessful in that race as well. His appointment as Under Secretary of the Navy in 2025 marked his entry into the executive branch, and now, with Phelan's exit, he is in charge of the entire department.
Family Life
Cao is married to April, and they have five children together. The family resides in Purcellville, Virginia.