U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan has been removed from his position by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Pentagon announced Wednesday. The abrupt dismissal adds Phelan to a growing list of military officials who have exited the Trump 2.0 administration under contentious circumstances.
Leadership Shift
Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed Phelan's departure in a post on X, stating that Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao will assume the role in an acting capacity. 'Phelan didn't understand he wasn't the boss. His job is to follow orders given, not follow the orders he thinks should be given,' a source familiar with the situation said. The source also noted Phelan's strained relationship with Hegseth, despite his positive rapport with President Trump.
Strategic Disagreements
The dismissal comes just one day after Phelan met with reporters to discuss key Navy initiatives, including investments in the Golden Fleet and its battleship and frigate programs. Phelan, a longtime financier, was confirmed by the Senate roughly a year ago. His removal underscores ongoing tensions within the Pentagon regarding strategic leadership and command priorities.
'Phelan didn't understand he wasn't the boss. His job is to follow orders given, not follow the orders he thinks should be given.' - Source familiar with the situation
The move signals Hegseth's assertive approach to reshaping military leadership, raising questions about the administration's broader defense strategy moving forward.