Senate Confirms Adm. Daryl Caudle as New Chief of Naval Operations

The leadership gap in the U.S. Navy was officially filled Thursday night with the Senate's confirmation of Adm. Daryl Caudle as the new chief of naval operations. 

Caudle, who has been at the helm of U.S. Fleet Forces Command since 2021, received approval in a voice vote, concluding a lengthy period of nearly six months without a Senate-confirmed leader for the service.

The position became available in February following President Donald Trump's sudden decision to remove Adm. Lisa Franchetti, marking her as the first woman to occupy the role. Neither Trump nor Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth provided an official explanation for her dismissal. However, Hegseth had previously voiced his disapproval of Franchetti in a publication, claiming that her advancement stemmed from political motivations rather than her qualifications.

In light of the current political climate, Caudle’s confirmation moved forward with minimal resistance. The Senate Armed Services Committee hearing centered on conventional Navy priorities, including shipbuilding, infrastructure, and munitions capacity. 

A few Democratic senators voiced their concerns about the dismissal of Franchetti and the prolonged wait for the appointment of a successor.

Senator Angus King from Maine challenged Caudle on his commitment to providing truthful military counsel, even if it contradicted the president's perspective. “I am fully prepared to proceed with that,” Caudle replied. “I am committed to fulfilling that promise, and if I am confirmed, I will dedicate myself to it with all my strength.”

A seasoned submariner, Caudle has previously commanded Naval Submarine Forces and was regarded as a reliable and experienced choice. In his written responses to the committee, he highlighted the importance of sailor quality of life, affirming his commitment to prioritize it as he had in his previous position.

Caudle’s confirmation came alongside a significant series of military promotions, which featured Lt. Gen. Shawn Bratton’s rise to the rank of four-star general and his appointment as vice chief of the U.S. Space Force. Bratton takes over from Gen. Michael Guetlein, who has been chosen to spearhead the development of the Golden Dome missile defense system.

Caudle steps into leadership of a Navy confronted with worldwide operational demands, industrial challenges, and rising concerns regarding mental health and readiness.