Viola has informed President Trump that he will be unable to accept his nomination to serve as secretary of the Army as the challenges of separating Mr. Viola from the organizations that he has built over the last thirty-five years have proven insurmountable,” a statement from Viola’s team on Friday evening said. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesperson, said Mattis is “disappointed but understands and respects Mr. Viola’s decision.”

“The Secretary is confident that Mr. Viola will remain a stalwart supporter of America’s soldiers,” avis said. Davis also said Mattis is “confident that Mr. Viola will remain a stalwart supporter of America’s soldiers” and will recommend a new nominee soon. President Donald Trump's nominee for Army secretary, businessman Vincent Viola, has withdrawn his name from consideration for the post.The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the official wasn't authorized to speak publicly.The Military Times reported that Viola said in a statement he was "deeply honored" to be nominated but cited his inability to successfully navigate the confirmation process and Defense Department rules concerning family businesses.Viola was the founder of several businesses, including the electronic trading firm Virtu Financial. “I offer my continued support for President Trump and his administration, and look forward to re-doubling my efforts to support the Army and its veterans as a private citizen.”

Viola is a billionaire from New York who owns the Florida Panthers, a hockey team.
West Point graduate, billionaire businessman, and philanthropist Vincent Viola withdraws his name from consideration as Secretary of the Army because of Defense Department rules concerning his family businesses.