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U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan resigns effective immediately

newsApr 22, 2026181,078

John Phelan resigned as U.S. Secretary of the Navy effective immediately, the Pentagon confirmed. Phelan is a civilian appointee WHO came to the job from a finance background and faced criticism for lacking prior military command experience. His departure follows the recent ouster of Army Chief of Staff General Randy George and other senior Pentagon leaders. The Pentagon has not named a successor or provided a public reason, leaving the White House responsible for nominating a replacement.

Key Highlights

Pentagon confirmed John Phelan's resignation is effective immediately upon announcement.
Phelan is a civilian appointee with a finance background, not prior military command.
No successor has been named; the White House must nominate a replacement.
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