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Jimmy Williams
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is under fire as questions emerge about the delayed disclosure of his recent hospitalization.
Lawmakers and officials are seeking answers after the Department of Defense (DoD) waited three days before informing key officials about Austin’s health condition.
Secretary Austin was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and it took a full three days before the White House’s National Security Council and other top officials were made aware of the situation. The delay has sparked concerns, particularly as Austin spent four days in the intensive care unit.
Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks reportedly learned about Austin’s condition two days after assuming his duties. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder disclosed that he was informed on January 2, two days before President Biden and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan received the news.
The delayed disclosure has prompted calls for Secretary Austin’s resignation, with GOP Representative Elise Stefanik characterizing the lack of transparency as “shocking and absolutely unacceptable.” Stefanik emphasized that this breakdown in communication poses a significant national security threat and called for immediate accountability.
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are expressing concerns about the lack of transparency. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin expressed surprise, stating that more information is needed. Senators Roger Wicker and Tom Cotton called the delay “unacceptable” and demanded a comprehensive briefing on the facts. This bipartisan concern underscores the gravity of the issue.
As of Sunday night, Austin remains hospitalized, with no specified release date. The Pentagon has shared that he is recovering well, but further details have not been disclosed, citing privacy reasons. The absence of detailed information has fueled speculation and increased demands for transparency regarding Austin’s health and the nature of the surgery that led to his hospitalization.
Despite the controversy, President Biden has not signaled any intention to dismiss Austin. Three administration officials confirmed that Biden maintains “full trust and confidence” in Austin. The president and Austin had a phone conversation on Saturday evening, with Biden extending warm wishes for Austin’s swift recovery.
As members of Congress return from the winter recess, it is anticipated that they will seek comprehensive answers from Secretary Austin. While some lawmakers fall short of demanding resignation, they stress the need for a thorough review and a clear explanation from the Secretary of Defense regarding the delayed notification.
