Trump Selects John Phelan as Navy Secretary

President-elect Donald Trump has announced businessman John Phelan as his nominee for Secretary of the Navy, despite Phelan's lack of military experience. Phelan, a major donor to Trump's campaign and founder of the private investment firm Rugger Management LLC, has been described by Trump as a 'tremendous force for our Naval Servicemembers' and someone who will advance his 'America First vision'. This appointment marks a shift, as Phelan would be the least experienced Navy secretary in years, with only six of the last 26 appointees lacking military service since 1950. Trump has also nominated Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, who similarly has limited military leadership experience. Confirmation hearings for Phelan and other nominees are expected in January 2025, with the Republican majority in the Senate likely to facilitate the process. Phelan's previous fundraising efforts for Trump include hosting a high-profile dinner that raised significant funds for the campaign.