Trump appoints Paul Dabbar, Hung Cao to positions within administration

President Trump Announces Key Appointments in His Administration

President Donald Trump recently made two significant announcements about key roles within his administration, selecting individuals with impressive backgrounds and qualifications to serve in critical positions. On Thursday evening, Trump revealed that Hung Cao, a former Virginia congressional candidate and Navy veteran, will be the next Under Secretary of the Navy. Additionally, Paul Dabbar, who previously served as the Under Secretary of Energy for Science during Trump’s first term, has been chosen as the Deputy Secretary of Commerce. Both appointments highlight Trump’s commitment to selecting individuals with extensive military and professional experience to fill key roles in his administration.

Hung Cao: A Refugee Turned Public Servant

Hung Cao, the newly appointed Under Secretary of the Navy, embodies the quintessential American success story. Cao’s journey to this position began in 1975 when he and his family fled Vietnam just before the fall of Saigon. They escaped as refugees, seeking a new life in the United States, where Cao would go on to achieve great things. After attending the United States Naval Academy, Cao embarked on a distinguished 25-year career in the Navy, retiring as a captain. His service included roles in Special Operations, as well as a stint at the Pentagon, where he played a key role in managing the Navy’s $140 billion budget. Cao’s leadership and experience make him an ideal candidate for this position.

In addition to his military service, Cao made headlines in 2024 when he ran for the U.S. Senate in Virginia against incumbent Democrat Sen. Tim Kaine. Although he lost that race, Cao earned the endorsement of President Trump, who praised his dedication and achievements. Trump took to Truth Social to congratulate Cao on his new role, writing, "Hung is the embodiment of the American Dream." Cao has also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "let’s get to work," on social media platform X.

Paul Dabbar: A Seasoned Leader in Energy and Commerce

Paul Dabbar, Trump’s pick for Deputy Secretary of Commerce, brings a wealth of experience in both the public and private sectors. During Trump’s first term, Dabbar served as the Under Secretary of Energy for Science, where he oversaw the National Labs that originated from the Manhattan Project. His work in this role was instrumental in advancing key areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, energy dominance, and military capabilities.

Before joining the Trump administration, Dabbar spent years in the energy sector, working as a managing director at J.P. Morgan. His background in finance and energy will be invaluable as he works alongside Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to "bring back American Leadership in Global Commerce, Trade, and Technology," as Trump stated. Dabbar’s unique blend of military and civilian experience makes him a strategic choice for this role.

Trump’s Praise for Both Appointees

President Trump has been vocal about his confidence in both Cao and Dabbar, highlighting their qualifications and dedication to public service. In separate posts on Truth Social, Trump emphasized the unique qualities each individual brings to their respective roles. For Cao, Trump noted his combat experience, his work at the Pentagon, and his embodiment of the American Dream. For Dabbar, Trump highlighted his leadership at the Department of Energy and his role in advancing critical technologies.

Both appointees have been praised for their ability to deliver results, a trait that aligns with Trump’s emphasis on achieving tangible outcomes in his administration. Their appointments are a testament to Trump’s focus on selecting individuals who have proven themselves in both military and civilian roles, ensuring that his administration is staffed with capable and experienced leaders.

The Significance of These Appointments

The appointments of Hung Cao and Paul Dabbar are significant not only for their individual qualifications but also for what they represent about the direction of Trump’s administration. Both men are Navy veterans and graduates of the United States Naval Academy, underscoring the importance Trump places on military experience and leadership. Their backgrounds in finance, energy, and national security also signal a focus on strengthening America’s global standing in commerce, technology, and defense.

Additionally, these appointments reflect Trump’s continued efforts to round out his Cabinet and fill key positions with capable individuals. As of Thursday, 19 of the 22 nominations requiring Senate confirmation have been approved, with hundreds of smaller positions still to be announced. These appointments demonstrate Trump’s progress in assembling a team that aligns with his vision for the administration and the nation.

A New Era of Leadership in the Trump Administration

With these appointments, President Trump has taken another step toward shaping his administration with leaders who share his commitment to American excellence and global leadership. Both Hung Cao and Paul Dabbar bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their new roles, ensuring that the Navy and the Department of Commerce are in capable hands. Their backgrounds as military veterans and their achievements in their respective fields make them ideal choices for these critical positions.

As the administration continues to fill the remaining roles, these appointments set a high standard for the kind of leadership and dedication that Trump expects from his team. With their combined experience in military service, finance, energy, and public policy, Cao and Dabbar are poised to make significant contributions to the administration’s goals and the nation as a whole. Their stories of success and service serve as a reminder of the potential for greatness that defines America and its people.