Voting in the City of Nanaimo? Click here to use our Know Your Vote tool for a custom ranking of Mayor and Council candidates based on how much you agree, or disagree, with them on key issues.
By Canadian Press

Trump to nominate Shanahan for top Pentagon post

May 9, 2019 | 1:16 PM

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump will nominate Patrick Shanahan to be his second secretary of defence.

The former Boeing executive has been leading the Pentagon as acting secretary since Jan. 1, a highly unusual arrangement for arguably the most sensitive Cabinet position.

White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said “Shanahan has proven over the last several months that he is beyond qualified to lead the Department of Defence, and he will continue to do an excellent job.”

Shanahan, who is 56, has a depth of experience in the defence industry but little in government.

investigation continues
Tumbler Ridge conspiracy complaint puts focus on messaging and social media firms
2h ago
many factors
'Too early to tell:' health officials encourage vaccinations amid uncertain flu season
5h ago
vote early
Advance voting opens in 2026 Municipal Elections
10h ago

He replaced former Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis, a retired Marine general, who quit in December after clashing with Trump over the president’s call to withdraw American troops from Syria.

Robert Burns And Lolita C. Baldor, The Associated Press

by Canadian Press

More Local News

investigation continues
Tumbler Ridge conspiracy complaint puts focus on messaging and social media firms
2h ago
many factors
'Too early to tell:' health officials encourage vaccinations amid uncertain flu season
5h ago
vote early
Advance voting opens in 2026 Municipal Elections
10h ago
local vote
Second Parksville all-candidates forum focusing on local economic development
Oct 6, 2026
discrimination
Rural Nanaimo firefighter wins wrongful dismissal case
Oct 6, 2026