Conversation so far:
When did Theodore Roosevelt become assistant secretary of the navy?
President William McKinley appointed Theodore Roosevelt as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy in 1897.
What did Theodore Roosevelt do as assistant secretary of the Navy?
Influenced by Alfred Thayer Mahan, Theodore Roosevelt called for a build-up in the country's naval strength, particularly the construction of battleships
Why did Theodore Roosevelt strengthen the Navy?
Theodore Roosevelt began pressing his national security views regarding the Pacific and the Caribbean on McKinley, and was particularly adamant that Spain be ejected from Cuba
Why did Theodore Roosevelt want Spain ejected from Cuba?
Theodore Roosevelt wanted to free America from European dominion, give the people something to think of which is not material gain, and try the Navy and Army in actual practice.
Was Theodore Roosevelt successful as assistant secretary of the Navy?
George Dewey, who had received an appointment to lead the Asiatic Squadron with the backing of Theodore Roosevelt, credited his victory at the Battle of Manila Bay to Roosevelt's orders
Did Theodore Roosevelt make any changes to the Navy?
Theodore Roosevelt also pressing his national security views regarding the Pacific and the Caribbean on McKinley who eventually asked Congress to declare war upon Spain, beginning the Spanish–American War.
What are some notable moments during Theodore Roosevelt's tenure in the Navy?
Without approval from Long or McKinley, Roosevelt sent out orders to several naval vessels, directing them to prepare for war.

Question: Was there criticism for his choices?
Self-contained rewrite: Was there criticism for Theodore Roosevelt directing several naval vessels to prepare for war?