Hung Cao Wikipedia, Biography, Age, Parents, Nationality, Wife, Religion, Military Service, Awards, Net Worth, Children, Family
Hung Cao Wikipedia, Biography
Hung Cao is a retired U.S. Navy captain and former Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate from Virginia. Born in Vietnam, he and his family fled the country after the fall of Saigon, spending some time in West Africa before settling in Virginia in the early 1980s. Cao has had a distinguished military career, serving for 25 years in various combat zones, including Iraq and Afghanistan, specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal.
In his political career, Cao first ran for office in 2022 for Virginia’s 10th Congressional District but was unsuccessful. He then sought the Senate seat in 2024, challenging incumbent Democrat Tim Kaine. His platform focused on reducing government intervention in the economy, advocating for lower taxes, protecting U.S. jobs, and addressing healthcare issues like medication shortages. Although he lost the race to Kaine, Cao remains active in public life and has continued to advocate for veteran affairs and national security issues.
Early Life of Hung Cao
Hung Cao was born in Vietnam, where he spent his early years before his family emigrated to the United States in 1975. As a child of refugees, Cao’s early life was shaped by the challenges of adapting to a new country and culture. His family initially resettled in Virginia, where he would grow up and later develop a passion for serving his new home.
Cao’s formative years in Virginia were marked by his drive for academic excellence. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria in 1989, a prestigious school known for its focus on science and technology.
Education of Hung Cao
Hung Cao’s academic journey took him from high school to the U.S. Naval Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ocean Engineering in 1996. He furthered his education by earning a master’s degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2008, specializing in defense technology. His academic achievements were complemented by his military training, preparing him for a distinguished career in the Navy.
Military Career of Hung Cao
Early Career and Specialization
Cao’s military career began in 1989 when he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy. Over the next three decades, Cao rose through the ranks, eventually achieving the rank of Navy Captain. His specialty areas included special operations, explosive ordnance disposal, and deep-sea diving, where he demonstrated unmatched expertise.
One of his notable accomplishments was his role in recovering John F. Kennedy Jr.’s plane, a high-profile operation in which he personally participated. Cao’s skill in deep-sea diving and salvage operations proved critical during this recovery mission, showcasing his technical ability and leadership in high-pressure situations.
Leadership Roles and Deployments
Cao served in various leadership roles throughout his career, including commanding the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center. This position involved overseeing the training of Navy divers, further solidifying his leadership in the field of naval operations.
His military service also saw him deployed to various conflict zones, including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Somalia. In these regions, Cao played pivotal roles in critical missions, from disaster recovery operations to combat deployments.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Hung Cao earned numerous awards and decorations for his distinguished service. These include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal, and various campaign ribbons for his deployments to conflict zones.
Political Career of Hung Cao
Transition to Politics
After retiring from the Navy in 2021, Hung Cao transitioned into the political sphere. His first political foray was in 2022, when he ran for Virginia’s 10th Congressional District as a Republican candidate. While he did not win the seat, his campaign garnered significant attention due to his military background and leadership experience.
2024 Senate Run
Hung Cao’s political ambitions did not stop with his congressional run. In 2024, he became the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate seat in Virginia. His victory in the GOP primary, where he secured over 60% of the vote, set the stage for a highly anticipated general election against Democratic Senator Tim Kaine.
Personal Life and Family
Hung Cao’s personal life is as grounded and focused as his professional career. He is married to April Lakata Cao, and together they have five children. The family resides in Purcellville, Virginia, where they are actively involved in their community.
Net Worth of Hung Cao
As of 2025, Hung Cao’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. This wealth is primarily derived from his long and successful career in the U.S. Navy, as well as his work in the private sector after retirement.
Conclusion
Hung Cao’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication. From his early days as a refugee to his rise in the U.S. Navy and his current bid for the Senate, Cao has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his country. His career in military operations, his leadership roles, and his personal values have made him a prominent figure in both military and political circles.
FAQs
Who is Hung Cao?
Hung Cao is a retired U.S. Navy Captain and Republican political figure. He is currently running for the U.S. Senate in Virginia in 2024.
What is Hung Cao’s background?
Born in Vietnam in 1971 or 1972, Cao’s family fled to the U.S. as refugees in 1975. He later joined the U.S. Navy, where he served for over 30 years before transitioning into politics.
What was Hung Cao’s role in the Navy?
Cao specialized in special operations, explosive ordnance disposal, and deep-sea diving. He led important operations, including the recovery of John F. Kennedy Jr.’s plane.
How many children does Hung Cao have?
Hung Cao and his wife, April, have five children.
What political office did Hung Cao run for?
Hung Cao ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2022 and is now running for the U.S. Senate in 2024.
What are Hung Cao’s political views?
Hung Cao supports limited government, a strong military, and fiscal responsibility. He is opposed to abortion and advocates for gun rights.
Where does Hung Cao live?
Hung Cao resides in Purcellville, Virginia, with his family.
What is Hung Cao’s education?
Cao graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a degree in Ocean Engineering and later earned a master’s degree from the Naval Postgraduate School.
What are Hung Cao’s major achievements?
Hung Cao’s achievements include leading the recovery of John F. Kennedy Jr.’s plane and commanding the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center.
