Mississippi Gulf News

Congressman Mike Ezell has introduced the Secretary of the Coast Guard Act of 2025, aiming to provide a dedicated civilian leader for the U.S. Coast Guard. This role is intended to ensure the service receives appropriate resources and support for its national security missions. The new Secretary of the Coast Guard would report directly to the department's Secretary, and the Coast Guard Commandant would be accountable to the new Secretary. This structure aligns with other military branches, which have dedicated Service Secretaries.

Ezell emphasized the Coast Guard's crucial national security role, stating, “Creating a Secretary of the Coast Guard ensures they have the leadership, resources, and support they need to continue their vital missions. It’s time we give the Coast Guard the same level of recognition and advocacy that other military branches receive.”

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Graves supported the initiative, noting, "I commend Subcommittee Chairman Ezell for introducing this bill as part of the Committee’s ongoing initiative to raise the Coast Guard’s profile and provide the resources it needs to carry out its many missions, including maritime law enforcement, illegal drug and migrant interdiction, and search and rescue."

Nicholas Begich, one of the bill's co-sponsors, highlighted the Coast Guard's role in defense and safety, especially in places like Alaska. “This long-overdue step gives the Coast Guard an important seat at the table, strengthens accountability, and ensures the men and women of the Coast Guard have the leadership and support they need to carry out their critical missions,” he said.

Vern Buchanan, another co-sponsor, said, “Establishing a Secretary of the Coast Guard is an important step toward ensuring the men and women of the Coast Guard receive the leadership and resources they deserve."

Ezell, who chairs the House Transportation and Infrastructure Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, has been a staunch advocate for maritime security. Current co-sponsors of the legislation include Daniel Webster, Nicholas Begich, and Vern Buchanan.