US Navy secretary nominee withdraws: Pentagon

[WASHINGTON] Philip Bilden has withdrawn his nomination as secretary of the US Navy, the Pentagon said on Sunday, the latest in a series of nominees to remove their names from consideration to serve under President Donald Trump.

"This was a personal decision driven by privacy concerns and significant challenges he faced in separating himself from his business interests," Defence Secretary Jim Mattis said in a statement, adding that he would soon suggest a new nominee.

"While I am disappointed, I understand and respect his decision, and know that he will continue to support our nation in other ways."

AFP