The U.S. Senate has confirmed retired Navy Captain Hung Cao as the new Under Secretary of the Navy, but not without stirring debate and drawing a rare Republican “no” vote from Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski. The 52-45 vote on Wednesday marks a significant moment for the Department of the Navy, placing a former special operations veteran and two-time political candidate in one of its top civilian roles.
A Nomination Fraught With Controversy
Hung Cao, who retired from the Navy as a captain and later ran for U.S. Senate in Virginia, faced scrutiny over his past statements and conduct during the confirmation process. While most Republicans supported his nomination, Murkowski stood apart, citing concerns about Cao’s previous remarks—particularly his opposition to diversity initiatives in military recruitment and his colorful description of the type of recruits the armed forces should seek.
At a Virginia Senate debate last year, Cao argued the military should focus on recruiting what he called “alpha-males and alpha-females” willing to “rip out their own guts, eat them and ask for seconds”. These comments, along with his alignment with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s so-called “war on wokeness,” became flashpoints during his confirmation hearings.
The Vote and Its Implications
Despite the controversy, Cao’s confirmation was never truly in doubt, with the Senate ultimately backing him by a comfortable margin. His supporters highlighted his decades of military service and operational experience, while critics questioned whether his divisive rhetoric and policy positions align with the Navy’s current priorities.
Alaska’s other senator, Dan Sullivan, voted in favor of Cao, reflecting the broader GOP support for the nominee. The split within the party, however small, underscores the ongoing tensions over military culture and recruitment strategies in Washington.
What’s Next for the Navy?
With his confirmation, Cao now steps into one of the most influential civilian roles overseeing the Navy and Marine Corps. Observers will be watching closely to see how his leadership style and policy preferences shape the service’s direction—especially on issues like diversity, recruitment, and modernization.
Cao’s arrival also comes at a time of heightened global tensions and rapid technological change within the armed forces. His background in special operations could bring a fresh perspective to Pentagon decision-making, but his controversial statements may also complicate efforts to build consensus on sensitive issues.
Expert Commentary
“Confirmations like this are always a balancing act between experience and ideology,” says a defense policy analyst who asked not to be named. “Cao’s military credentials are solid, but his public comments have raised eyebrows. The real test will be whether he can translate his combat experience into effective, inclusive leadership at the Pentagon.”
Takeaways for Readers
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Hung Cao is now the Under Secretary of the Navy, confirmed by a 52-45 Senate vote.
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His nomination drew rare Republican dissent, with Senator Lisa Murkowski voting no due to concerns over his past statements.
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Cao’s views on military recruitment and diversity were central to the debate, reflecting broader cultural divides within the armed forces.
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His leadership will be closely watched as the Navy faces evolving challenges at home and abroad.
The confirmation of Hung Cao is more than a routine personnel move—it’s a window into the ongoing struggle over the soul of the U.S. military in an era of political polarization and rapid change.
Sources
1. Murkowski votes against Navy nominee - Alaska Public Media
2. HUNG CAO FOR VIRGINIA - committee overview - FEC
3. Senate confirms Hung Cao as Navy under secretary - Inside Defense
4. Breaking Defense - Defense industry news, analysis and commentary
5. Secretary Phelan Welcomes Under Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao and Launches Portfolio to S
6. Congressional Record | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
7. Hung Cao Confirmed as Navy Under Secretary, VADM Thomas Nominated to Lead Fleet Forces
8. Senate Confirms Hung Cao as Undersecretary of the Navy
