Brandon Newsom, previously a senior Pentagon official, is no longer with the Department of the Navy, as stated by Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao. Newsom had been on administrative leave following the release of undercover footage.
The announcement was made by Cao on social media, though it remains unclear if Newsom was fired or resigned from the position.
The hidden-camera footage, released by conservative activist James O’Keefe, showed Newsom making critical comments about President Donald Trump. The footage captured Newsom expressing an intention to undo Trump administration policies when the opportunity arises.
Newsweek has yet to verify the authenticity of the recording, which includes Newsom’s criticism of policies he felt conflicted with his values. These included religious services at the Pentagon and certain changes affecting federal employees.
Moreover, in the video, Newsom described Trump as “a textbook narcissist” and criticized the ongoing conflict with Iran, labeling it “stupid” and driven by ego.
After the video’s release, Hung Cao confirmed Newsom’s administrative leave status, pending a review of his conduct. The Department of the Navy emphasized the seriousness of the conduct shown in the video.
“Such statements and apparent intent to leverage a position to undermine the policies and direction set by our elected leaders are inappropriate and incompatible with the standards expected of Department personnel,” Cao stated.
This development is part of an ongoing breaking news story and updates will follow.