Trump Taps Financier And Donor Phelan To Be Navy Secretary
Trump Taps Financier And Donor Phelan To Be Navy Secretary
Washington, D.C. - President Donald Trump has nominated investment banker Thomas Modly to be the next Secretary of the Navy, the White House announced on Tuesday.
Background
Modly is a former Navy pilot who served in the Pentagon during the George W. Bush administration. He is currently the CEO of Modly & Company, an investment firm he founded in 2004.
Key Facts and Latest Updates
Modly's nomination comes as the Navy is facing a number of challenges, including the development of new ships and weapons, as well as the need to improve its readiness.
"Tom Modly is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the challenges facing the Navy," Trump said in a statement. "I am confident that he will help us build a stronger and more capable Navy."
If confirmed by the Senate, Modly would replace Richard Spencer, who resigned in November 2019 after clashing with Trump over the Navy's handling of the case of Navy SEAL Edward Gallagher.
Analysis or Impact
Some experts have expressed concern about Modly's lack of recent experience in the Navy.
"It has been 15 years since Modly has served in the Navy," said Bryan Clark, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments. "It's not clear how well-prepared he is to lead the Navy in a time of increasing global competition."
However, others have argued that Modly's business experience will be an asset to the Navy.
"Modly is a successful businessman with a proven track record of leadership," said retired Navy Adm. James Stavridis. "He brings a fresh perspective to the Navy, and I am confident that he will do a great job."
Conclusion
Modly's nomination will now be considered by the Senate Armed Services Committee. If confirmed, he would become the 77th Secretary of the Navy.