In a major announcement on Tuesday, U.S. Navy Secretary John C. Phelan revealed that Kristina Wong, longtime Pentagon correspondent for Breitbart News, is stepping into a powerful new role as the Navy’s Director of Communications and Chief Spokesperson.
“I’d like to introduce Kristina Wong, my new Director of Communications and Chief Spokesperson for the Department of the Navy,” Phelan posted on X. “Welcome aboard!”
Wong’s appointment follows reports from CBS News that she was already a leading candidate for the job, with “current and former Defense Department officials” confirming her strong consideration.
A seasoned national security reporter, Wong joined Breitbart News in 2017 to cover the Pentagon and the Department of Defense. She previously wrote for The Hill and The Washington Times, and has served as treasurer for the Military Reporters & Editors (MRE) Association.
Her colleagues at Breitbart praised her appointment and celebrated her rise to one of the top communications positions in the U.S. military.
Washington Bureau Chief Matthew Boyle called her a “total superstar,” adding, “Sad to see you leave Breitbart, but the nation and the U.S. Navy just picked up a total superstar.”
International Editor Frances Martel was equally heartfelt in her praise: “One of the smartest, kindest, most dependable colleagues I’ve ever had the privilege to work with… Best of luck with the Navy!!”
Other Breitbart voices joined the chorus of support:
- Olivia Rondeau: “We will miss her at Breitbart. She is excellent!”
- Bradley Jaye, Deputy Political Editor: “There is absolutely no better choice for this role than @kristina_wong, an authentic patriot and incredibly talented and hardworking. Congratulations Kristina!”
Kristina Wong’s move marks a big moment—not just for her career, but for the kind of bold, principled journalism she brought to national security reporting. Now, she takes those skills straight into the heart of the U.S. Navy.
