The Liberty Score is a rating system assessing how closely an individual’s views align with core Libertarian principles. Scores are based on a 0-100 scale, with 100 representing a fully Libertarian position and 0 representing complete opposition to Libertarian values. The grading criteria include:
Each category will be scored, then averaged to form the individual’s overall Liberty Score, providing a clear snapshot of their alignment with Libertarian ideals. Grades are provided by AI
Liberty Score Assessment:
Personal Freedom (10/25): John Phelan’s background as a financier and art collector provides limited insight into his stance on personal freedoms. His lack of public service record makes it difficult to assess his commitment to civil liberties.
Economic Freedom (15/25): As co-founder and chief investment officer of MSD Capital, Phelan has demonstrated support for free-market principles. However, his role as Secretary of the Navy would focus more on defense management than economic policy.
Limited Government (10/25): Phelan’s nomination by President-elect Donald Trump, despite his lack of military experience, suggests a preference for private sector leadership in government roles. However, his views on limiting government intervention are not well-documented.
Non-Intervention (5/25): There is no public information on Phelan’s foreign policy views, making it challenging to determine his stance on military intervention and non-interventionist principles.
Bio: John Phelan, an American businessman and art collector, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the Secretary of the Navy. Born in 1964, Phelan earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science from Southern Methodist University in 1986 and an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1990. He co-founded MSD Capital in 1998 to manage Michael Dell’s capital and later established Rugger Management LLC, a private investment firm based in Palm Beach, Florida. Phelan has also served on the board of Spirit of America, a nonprofit supporting U.S. troops abroad. Despite lacking military experience, his nomination reflects an intent to bring business acumen to the Department of the Navy.
Career Highlights:
About the Secretary of the Navy Role: The Secretary of the Navy oversees the Department of the Navy, including both the Navy and the Marine Corps. Responsibilities encompass recruitment, organization, supply, equipment, training, and mobilization. The role requires effective management of resources and personnel to ensure naval readiness and national security. Phelan’s business background suggests a focus on efficiency and innovation within the department.