WASHINGTON—The Heritage Foundation released the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s nomination of Brent Sadler (Captain, U.S. Navy, Retired) as the next Maritime Administrator in the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD). MARAD supports America's maritime transportation infrastructure – including ships and shipping, port and vessel operations, national security, environment, and safety.  

Brent joined Heritage after a 26-year Navy career that included numerous operational tours on nuclear-powered submarines, staffing of senior Defense Department leaders, and as a military diplomat in Asia. As a Senior Research Fellow, Brent has focused on maritime security and the technologies shaping our future maritime forces. 

Heritage Vice President of the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy Victoria Coates commented:     

“We are deeply proud to see Brent Sadler nominated for this critical position related to America’s national and economic security. His comprehensive and successful Naval career as well as his policy work at Heritage position him well to serve this role with excellence and integrity. We will miss him, but he is the best candidate for this role.”   

Heritage Director of the Allison Center for National Security Robert Greenway added:   

“Having worked alongside Brent for several years, I’ve seen firsthand his leadership, passion, and knowledge related to the maritime domain and the revolution in shipping required to transform a vital industry. His nomination is a testament to the Trump administration’s unwavering commitment to addressing America’s depleted maritime sector amid global uncertainty.”