The U.S. Senate confirmed John Phelan as Secretary of the Navy in a 62-30 vote. A Florida businessman and major Trump donor, Phelan brings no military background but gained bipartisan support.
Some lawmakers voiced concern over his lack of defense experience, but Phelan argued his private-sector expertise would help tackle the Navy’s urgent issues—failed audits, workforce shortages, shipbuilding delays, and cost overruns.
He pledged to review contracts, push for audit transparency, and modernize the Navy’s approach. During his confirmation, he focused on reforming the troubled Constellation-class frigate program and committed to evaluating its setbacks.
Phelan said his role would be to support the Navy’s operational experts while driving change, stating tradition must not stifle innovation, collaboration, or results. He emphasized accountability and a need to move beyond the status quo.
