TRUMP WANTS RICH ANDERSON TO BE THE NEXT ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE
President Donald Trump is nominating a man with ample military experience, deep ties to the community, and an understanding of how politics work for the role of Assistant Secretary of the Air Force. Virginia GOP Chairman Rich Anderson has been nominated for the job. Get to know more about the Retired Air Force Colonel and why he could be a great fit.
Who Is Rich Anderson?
Retired Veteran Richard Anderson has served as a politician in Virginia and is now being nominated for the role of Assistant Secretary of the Air Force.
With a notable career in both the military and politics, Anderson is a qualified pick for the role and will look to bring his experience as an officer in the Air Force along with his knowledge of how to navigate Washington to the position.
Military Service
If you’re going to help shape the military, it’s typically a good idea to have some sort of experience in the American Armed Forces.
Richard Anderson graduated from Virginia Tech in 1979, when he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force and went on to have quite a military career.
Anderson served as a nuclear missile operations officer in both Titan II and Minuteman II intercontinental ballistic missile units. His service also included various command and staff positions.
Furthering his education even more, Anderson earned a Master’s degree in public administration from Webster University in 1982 and also attended the Air War College, Air Command and Staff College, and the Armed Forces Staff College.
He also had a long tenure with the Civil Air Patrol, where he rose to the rank of brigadier general and served as National Commander from 1993 to 1996.
Over his distinguished career, Anderson achieved the rank of Colonel, retiring in 2009.
Supporting the Airmen is an important part of Anderson’s life that would continue well after his retirement and is coming into play with his nomination.
Furthermore, his wife, Ruth Valentine, is also an Air Force Veteran, serving for 21 years. His military experience, connection to the community, and leadership skills are exactly why Trump is nominating the Vet for the job.
Political Career
Richard Anderson’s political journey began after his retirement from the U.S. Air Force.
In 2009, Anderson entered the Virginia political scene, winning the Republican nomination for the 51st district in the Virginia House of Delegates, earning a narrow victory.
This would be the beginning, however, as he was re-elected in 2011, 2013, and 2015, even running unopposed for a fourth term.
During his time in the House of Delegates, Anderson was a significant figure, chairing the House Committee on Science and Technology and serving on several other important committees, shaping important policies for Old Dominion still seen today.
Anderson was elected Chairman of the Virginia Republican Party in 2020, furthering his political career, and now in 2025, his nomination as the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force is adding a new chapter to his life of public service.
Trump Nominates Rich Anderson for Assistant Secretary of the Air Force
With three decades of military experience and a notable ongoing run in politics, Trump is nominating to be the next Assistant Secretary of the Air Force.
Should Anderson get the role, he’d be helping Airmen by taking on the responsibility of “acquisition, technology, and logistics matters of the Department of the Air Force.”
“During our time serving as party chairs, Rich and I found common ground — as natives of western Virginia, lovers of old-time gospel music and seltzer water, and, most importantly, in our steadfast belief in free and fair elections. I deeply respect Rich’s devotion to this country, especially as a Veteran, and I wish him all the best in his new role,” said Democratic Party Chairwoman Susan Swecker.
Capable of reaching across party lines, Rich Anderson provides a very unique set of skills during a highly contentious time in Washington.
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