Senate Confirms John Phelan as Navy Secretary, 62-30 Vote

John Phelan was confirmed as the 79th Secretary of the Navy by the Senate in a 62-30 vote, despite lacking military experience. Phelan, a businessman and founder of Rugger Management LLC, emphasized his business background as a means to address significant issues within the Navy, such as shipbuilding delays, cost overruns, and failed audits. His priorities include strengthening the Navy’s industrial base and reviewing existing contracts to ensure effective shipbuilding and management. Some lawmakers expressed concerns about his lack of military service, but Phelan argued that his experience positions him well to reform the Navy. He has pledged to tackle systemic failures contributing to record-high suicide rates and inadequate maintenance within the ranks. Phelan's appointment marks a shift as he becomes the first Navy Secretary without military experience since 2009.