John Phelan out as Navy secretary in latest high-profile Trump admin. departure

CBS News
April 22, 2026
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2 min read

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Navy Secretary John Phelan is departing his role immediately, requiring a new leader for the Navy.

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Navy Secretary John Phelan is departing his role effective immediately, as confirmed by chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell. This marks another high-profile departure from the Trump administration, following previous changes within the executive branch. Phelan's exit necessitates the appointment of a new leader for the Navy, a critical component of the U.S. military. The White House will now need to nominate a successor to oversee naval operations and policy.

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