Trump Selects Navy Veteran Brent Sadler to Head Maritime Administration

President Donald Trump has put forward Brent Sadler as the nominee for the head of the Maritime management (MARAD),which oversees U.S. water transportation.

A seasoned veteran with 26 years in the U.S. Navy and a background as a submariner, Sadler currently serves as a senior research fellow at The Heritage Foundation focusing on naval warfare and advanced technologies. He’s also penned “U.S. Naval Power in the 21st Century,” addressing strategies against threats from China and Russia.

this nomination was made quietly; rather than issuing a press release, it appeared on Congress.gov under Actions: PN55-39 — for the current congressional session.

If confirmed, Sadler will take over from Ann phillips, who was appointed by President Biden and left her role earlier this year.

Established in 1950 and now part of Secretary Sean Duffy’s Department of Transportation, MARAD plays a crucial role in managing grants aimed at enhancing freight movement across America’s extensive network of navigable waterways—totaling around 27,000 miles!

The nomination was submitted to the Senate on March 24 and is currently with the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation led by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas).

Recently testifying before Congress during an Oversight Committee hearing focused on military affairs, Sadler showcased his expertise further. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with advanced degrees from both National War College in Washington D.C., specializing in national strategy/security; he also holds a Master’s degree from Sophia University in Tokyo that emphasizes global studies/national security—bringing an international perspective to his potential new role.

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