In a move that's already rippling through the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has fired Jon Harrison, the longtime chief of staff for the Navy. The dismissal came on Friday, October 3, 2025, just days after the Senate confirmed Hung Cao as the new undersecretary of the Navy. Harrison, who had been a key figure in the department since the Trump era, was instrumental in pushing through major bureaucratic overhauls. Indeed, his role made him unusually influential, often described as one of the most powerful aides in naval leadership.
Details on the exact reasons remain scarce, but insiders point to tensions building since Hegseth took office. Harrison had been helping orchestrate the unprecedented reorganization of the Pentagon's structure, a process that's seen several high-level exits already. Moreover, this firing follows a pattern of quick personnel changes under the new administration, with Hegseth signaling a desire to align the military more closely with President Trump's vision. Harrison's departure, however, feels particularly stark—coming right before the Navy's 250th anniversary celebrations next week.
Harrison's tenure wasn't without controversy. Earlier this year, reports surfaced of efforts by Navy Secretary John Phelan and his staff to limit the incoming undersecretary's authority, moves that Harrison was reportedly involved in. He brought a background in defense engineering and had served as chairman of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission before his Navy post. At Florida Atlantic University and Palm Beach State College, he's even a trustee, showing his broad ties in public service. Yet, in the fast-paced world of Washington, loyalties shift quickly.
The Pentagon issued a brief statement thanking Harrison for his service, but offered no further comment. Critics might see this as yet another power consolidation, especially with Cao—a staunch Trump ally—now stepping in. However, supporters argue it's necessary streamlining for efficiency. As these changes unfold, one can't help but wonder how they'll impact the Navy's readiness amid global tensions.