# White House Nominates Navy Civilian Leaders

The White House has formally submitted the nominations of Hung Cao as Secretary of the Navy and William Toti as Undersecretary of the Navy to the U.S. Senate. Cao has been serving as acting Secretary since April following John Phelan's departure. These nominations aim to establish permanent civilian leadership within the Navy, which is critical for providing strategic oversight and continuity in Navy procurement policies and acquisition programs.

- **Why this matters:** Stable civilian leadership in the Navy influences procurement priorities, contract awards, and policy direction affecting defense contractors and suppliers.
- Procurement professionals should anticipate potential shifts or reaffirmations in Navy acquisition strategies as these nominees assume confirmed roles.
- Contractors and industry stakeholders may find opportunities to engage with Navy programs under clarified leadership and policy continuity.
- Monitoring Senate confirmation progress is important as delays or changes could impact Navy procurement timelines and decision-making.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Policy
**Published:** September 15, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Navy
- White House
- U.S. Senate

### Sources
- [White House Sends New Top Navy Civilian Nominees To The Senate - Defense Daily](https://www.defensedaily.com/white-house-sends-new-top-navy-civilian-nominees-to-the-senate/navy-usmc) - defensedaily.com