Reed Statement on Navy Secretary John Phelan Resignation

WASHINGTON, DC-Today, after the Department of Defense announced that Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan would resign his post, effective immediately, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

"I thank Secretary Phelan for his service to our nation and to the men and women of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. During his tenure, I appreciated his outreach and engagement.

"Secretary Phelan's abrupt dismissal is troubling. I am concerned it is yet another example of the instability and dysfunction that have come to define the Department of Defense under President Trump and Secretary Hegseth. In the midst of President Trump's war of choice in Iran, at a moment when our naval forces are stretched thin across multiple theaters, this kind of disruption at the top sends the wrong signal to our sailors and Marines, to our allies, and to our adversaries.

"The Department of the Navy faces significant challenges that require steady, experienced, and professional leadership. Our servicemembers deserve better than constant upheaval from President Trump's administration.

"I urge President Trump to move quickly to nominate a Secretary of the Navy who brings deep experience, sound judgment, and the respect of military servicemembers. The stakes are too high for anything less."

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