Trump Nominates Hung Cao for Navy's No. 2 Spot

Former Navy captain Hung Cao has been nominated by President Donald Trump as the undersecretary of the U.S. Navy, the second-highest position in the Navy. Cao, a Vietnamese refugee and graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, served 25 years in special operations and held roles at the Pentagon. Trump praised Cao as the 'embodiment of the American Dream' and emphasized his combat and leadership experience. Cao is a vocal critic of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, aligning with Trump's directive to dismantle DEI programs in the military, and has argued for a focus on 'alpha males and alpha females' in military recruitment. His nomination may face scrutiny from Democrats, particularly given his controversial statements during his political campaigns and the lack of certain military commendations despite claims of combat injuries. Cao's appointment follows his recent unsuccessful bids for political office, including a Senate race against Tim Kaine in Virginia.