In a significant move for the U.S. Navy, the Senate has confirmed financier John Phelan as the 79th Secretary of the Navy, with a decisive vote of 62-30. This confirmation marks a noteworthy chapter in military leadership, as Phelan becomes the second service secretary selected by former President Donald Trump, following the appointment of Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll earlier this year.

Phelan’s nomination is particularly remarkable, as he is the first Navy secretary since 2009 to assume the role without a military background. While he may be relatively unknown in the naval community, his credentials as co-founder and chairman of Rugger Management and former chief investment officer of MSD Capital bring a unique perspective to this vital position. Phelan also stands out for his support of Trump, having hosted a fundraiser last summer that showcased his commitment to the former president’s agenda.

Despite concerns regarding his lack of direct national security experience, Phelan’s journey to the Navy secretary position has been largely uncontroversial. During his confirmation hearing on February 27, discussions were primarily centered on critical shipbuilding programs and the interests of various lawmakers representing their states. Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia, who leads the Senate Armed Services Committee’s seapower subcommittee, acknowledged Phelan’s nontraditional nomination while expressing curiosity about how he might enact change in an area struggling with traditional approaches.

Phelan articulated his priorities during the hearing, emphasizing the importance of shipbuilding acquisition programs and the need to strengthen the Navy’s industrial base. He stated that a pressing priority upon taking office would be to evaluate contracts rigorously, suggesting that he might seek to renegotiate agreements where appropriate. His focus on shipbuilding aligns closely with Trump’s advocacy, and he recounted a late-night message from the president highlighting a visual reminder of the Navy’s aging fleet.

“I think what is missing, from what I can see, is a sense of urgency,” Phelan remarked during his testimony, indicating his intention to tackle challenges head-on rather than wait for a crisis to catalyze action.

In conjunction with Phelan’s appointment, Trump also announced the nomination of retired Navy Captain Hung Cao as the Navy’s second-highest civilian official, adding further interest in the upcoming developments within the service. With two key positions filled, attention now shifts to Troy Meink, the nominee for Secretary of the Air Force, whose confirmation hearing is scheduled for later this week.

The confirmation of John Phelan as Secretary of the Navy signals a pivotal moment for the service, as it embarks on a journey of renewed leadership at a time when naval capabilities are critical to national security. As the Navy embraces this new era of civilian oversight, the implications of Phelan’s business-oriented approach and focus on shipbuilding will be closely monitored by both lawmakers and military strategists alike.