The president-elect said in a statement, “John will be a tremendous force for our Navy service members, and a steadfast leader in advancing my America First vision.”
“He will put the business of the United States Navy above all else.”
Critics were quick to blast his selection on social media.
One user wrote on
Another added: “Trump’s nominee for Secretary of the Navy has zero naval or military experience. He is a businessman.”
A third commented: “Phelan did NOT serve in the military, just a rich capitalist.”