The United States Senate voted to confirm John Phelan as the
next Secretary of the Navy. Phelan, a Florida businessman and founder of a
private investment firm, is also a major donor to former President Trump's
campaign.
He was confirmed by a 62-30 vote on the Senate floor.
Despite having no prior military experience, Phelan garnered bipartisan support
for the position, The Hill reported.
While Phelan faced no direct opposition during his February
27 nomination hearing, some lawmakers raised concerns about his lack of
military service or experience managing a civilian branch of the Pentagon.
However, Phelan maintained that his private sector
experience uniquely positions him to address the Navy's persistent challenges,
including failed audits, personnel issues, cost overruns, and shipbuilding
delays.