President Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Hung Cao as the permanent Secretary of the Navy on Tuesday, calling the former Navy special operations officer a "true warrior" and urging swift Senate confirmation. Cao has been serving in an acting capacity for the past four months, overseeing both the Navy and Marine Corps as the Trump administration continues its push to expand U.S. shipbuilding and bolster the nation’s maritime capabilities.
Speaking on Truth Social, Trump expressed his strong support for the nomination. "I am pleased to nominate a true WARRIOR, Hung Cao, to become the next Secretary of the Navy," Trump stated. He emphasized the need for leaders like Cao within the military branches, adding, "We need Patriots like Hung leading our Navy and Marine Corps, and I can think of no one better than him to make sure our Great Navy and Marine Corps remain the FIERCEST and BEST Force the World has ever seen." The former president also called upon the Senate to act quickly on the confirmation, highlighting Cao’s existing tenure. "The Senate needs to confirm this Warfighter, ASAP, so he can continue the fantastic work he has been doing over the past 4 months," Trump wrote.
Shortly after the announcement, Cao took to X (formerly Twitter) to thank Trump and outline his ongoing priorities. "Thank you, Mr. President. It’s an honor of a lifetime to lead the great warriors of the Navy and Marine Corps team," Cao posted. He reiterated his commitment to key strategic areas, stating, "I’m grateful for your leadership and support as we continue to get after shipbuilding and ensure the defense of the homeland."
Military Service and Political Ventures
Cao brings a distinguished military career to the role, having retired as a Navy captain after 25 years of service. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, his extensive background includes special operations assignments and deployments to combat zones, notably Iraq and Afghanistan.
Following his military service, Cao transitioned into politics as a Virginia Republican. He mounted an unsuccessful campaign for Congress in 2022 before challenging Democratic Senator Tim Kaine for his Senate seat in 2024. During his 2024 campaign, Trump publicly endorsed Cao, frequently highlighting his impressive military background. Cao ultimately lost to Senator Kaine, after which he joined the Trump administration, assuming the acting leadership of the Navy earlier this year.
Should the Senate confirm his nomination, Cao would formally assume full responsibility for the Department of the Navy, which encompasses the operational command of both the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps.