President Donald Trump announced late Thursday night the nomination of Hung Cao as the next Under Secretary of the Navy, marking a significant selection for the military branch’s second-highest civilian position. Trump described Cao, a retired Navy captain and immigrant from Vietnam, as “the embodiment of the American Dream” through a post on his Truth Social platform. With his rich military background and vocal criticism of current military initiatives, Cao’s nomination clearly aligns with the Trump administration’s focus on altering the Navy's leadership style and directives.
Born as a refugee who fled Vietnam just before the fall of Saigon, Hung Cao came to the United States as a child. He dedicated 25 years to the Navy, serving as a Special Operations Officer and leading missions during deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Somalia. During his tenure, he held various leadership roles, including managing the Navy's $140 billion budget and positions at the Pentagon, the Department of Homeland Security, and even the FBI. “With Hung’s experience both in combat and in the Pentagon, he will get the job done,” Trump stated, reitering his belief in Cao's capabilities.
Although his military background is impressive, Cao’s political aspirations saw him compete for congressional and Senate seats, running unsuccessfully against both Democratic Rep. Jennifer Wexton and Virginia’s Sen. Tim Kaine. His outspoken criticisms, especially against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives during his campaign, gained significant attention. Cao famously commented, “When you’re using a drag queen to recruit for the Navy, that's not the people we want,” during a televised debate, which sparked controversy and discussion about military recruitment strategies.
Trump’s decision to nominate Cao falls closely on the heels of the former president’s push to dismantle DEI initiatives across federal forces. Just recently, the Pentagon was instructed to reassess its approach to inclusivity following pushback surrounding recruitment strategies perceived as liberal. Cao has been particularly vocal against these tactics, emphasizing the need to attract “alpha males and alpha females” to military ranks—individuals ready to embody resilience and toughness.
His nomination also acknowledges the broader shifts underway within military leadership as the Navy faces increased competition from adversaries, particularly China, and internal challenges such as delayed shipbuilding programs and budget constraints. Appointed during Phelan’s confirmation hearing for the Navy secretary, Cao’s nomination is timely, particularly concerning the Navy’s pressing need for reform and upgraded strategy to effectively combat future threats.
Political analysts suggest Cao’s selection might ignite fierce debates during the Senate confirmation process. His past positions, which directly oppose the Democratic majority's stance on diversity initiatives, suggest potential hurdles. "I think it’s fair to say there will certainly be conversations about his views on DEI initiatives and their replacements as part of his confirmation discussions," commented one Senate aide. Cao has articulated clear views which may lead to scrutiny from his political opponents.
The Senate confirmation process will not only serve as a platform for Cao to defend his views but also to outline his vision for the Navy’s future under his leadership. He expressed readiness for this upcoming chapter, posting on X, "It’s time to get to work,” shortly after the announcement.
While the nomination received support from many within the Republican party, it has also raised eyebrows among those concerned about the direction the Navy may take under Cao’s leadership, particularly surrounding recruitment and the values promoted among service members. The discussions will likely reflect broader societal debates over representation, military culture, and the ideal characteristics of modern armed forces personnel.
Part of Hung Cao's campaign outlined the stance on military issues as preserving traditional values, marking him as ideologically distinct among his military peers. Critics note potential challenges, particularly as he takes on such responsibilities at the helm of the Navy paraphernalia. With Trump’s endorsement bolstering his nomination, Cao is poised to make significant contributions to the Navy's strategies moving forward.
The nomination of Hung Cao is emblematic of the shifts occurring within military and political arenas, where military veterans like Cao advocate for direct reform and strident conservatism. Whether or not he secures Senate approval, his candidacy for the undersecretary position will be pivotal for both his political future and the Navy's adaptability to modern challenges. Observers will be paying close attention, as his confirmation could signal broader trends within military leadership amid societal changes and operational demands.