Journalist TRANSFERS – Navy Changes GAME!

Breitbart News Pentagon correspondent Kristina Wong has been appointed as the new Director of Communications and Chief Spokesperson for the Department of the Navy, marking a significant transition from journalism to military communications leadership.

At a Glance

• Secretary of the U.S. Navy John C. Phelan announced Kristina Wong as his Director of Communications and Chief Spokesperson
• Wong previously served as a Pentagon correspondent for Breitbart News since 2017
• Before Breitbart, Wong worked at the Washington Times and the Hill
• She has served as the treasurer of the Military Reporters & Editors Association
• Former colleagues praised Wong as an “authentic patriot” who is “incredibly talented and hardworking”

From Newsroom to Naval Communications

Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan made the announcement about Wong’s appointment through an official statement welcoming her to the department. The move brings Wong’s extensive experience in defense reporting to the forefront of naval communications strategy. Wong joined Breitbart News in 2017, where she established herself as a dedicated Pentagon and Department of Defense reporter with a reputation for thorough coverage of military affairs and defense policy developments.

Wong’s background includes significant experience beyond Breitbart. Prior to her position there, she worked at respected publications including the Washington Times and the Hill, building her expertise in defense reporting and establishing networks within the military community. This diverse media background will likely inform her approach to managing communications for one of America’s most vital military branches during a time of heightened global tensions and evolving defense priorities.

Professional Credentials and Industry Recognition

Beyond her reporting duties, Wong has demonstrated commitment to the field of military journalism through her service as treasurer of the Military Reporters & Editors Association. This professional organization works to ensure accurate reporting on military and national security issues, suggesting Wong brings not only journalistic credentials but also a dedication to maintaining high standards in defense communications. Her involvement with the organization indicates a professional respect among her peers in specialized military reporting.

Wong’s appointment represents a significant personnel choice for the Navy’s public affairs operations, which manages communication across a vast organization responsible for America’s naval and Marine Corps operations worldwide. As Director of Communications, she will oversee messaging about naval operations, policy initiatives, and respond to media inquiries during both routine operations and crisis situations. The role requires balancing transparency with operational security considerations—a task that aligns with her journalistic background.

Reactions from Former Colleagues

The announcement of Wong’s departure from Breitbart generated significant reaction from her colleagues. Breitbart News Washington Bureau Chief Matthew Boyle characterized Wong as a “total superstar,” expressing sadness at her departure while acknowledging the significance of her new role. The mixed emotions from her former workplace reflect both her valued contributions to the organization and recognition of the importance of her new position within the government.

Breitbart News International Editor Frances Martel offered particularly effusive praise, describing Wong as among “the smartest, kindest, most dependable colleagues” she had worked with, comparing her knowledge to “an encyclopedia.” Breitbart Deputy Political Editor Bradley Jaye added to the chorus of praise, describing Wong as an “authentic patriot” who demonstrated exceptional talent and work ethic during her tenure. These tributes from colleagues suggest Wong built substantial professional respect during her journalism career.

Significance for Navy Communications

Wong’s appointment occurs as the U.S. Navy faces several significant communications challenges, including explaining modernization efforts, addressing recruitment goals, and communicating America’s naval presence amid growing tensions in regions like the South China Sea and the Middle East. Her experience covering Pentagon affairs positions her to understand both the policy complexities and communication requirements of a major military branch in a rapidly evolving global security environment.

The appointment signals a potential shift in how the Department of the Navy approaches its media engagement and public affairs strategy. Wong’s background in conservative media brings a different perspective to the role than might traditionally be seen in such appointments. Her extensive experience covering defense matters suggests she brings subject matter expertise that could enhance the Navy’s ability to communicate technical and strategic information effectively to both specialized defense media and broader public audiences.