Pete Hegseth fires U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan
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U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan is departing immediately, with Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao taking over in an acting capacity.
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John Phelan is "departing" as U.S. Navy secretary, the Pentagon announced Wednesday. Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated on X that Phelan was "departing the administration, effective immediately." This announcement caught many off-guard and adds Phelan to a growing list of military officials who have exited their posts under President Trump's second term. Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao will assume the role in an acting capacity. Phelan, confirmed by the Senate about a year ago, reportedly "didn't get along" with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
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Navy Secretary Phelan Stepping Down Immediately, Pentagon Says - Bloomberg.com

Navy Secretary John Phelan Is Leaving the Pentagon and the Trump Administration

Hung Cao to take over as acting SECNAV after Phelan’s unexpected exit from Trump administration
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US Navy Secretary John Phelan's Sudden Departure
US Navy Secretary John Phelan has abruptly resigned from his position, effective immediately. This marks another high-profile departure from the Trump administration and has prompted questions about the reasons behind his sudden exit.
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