There is growing criticism of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after it was revealed that his deputy, Kathleen Hicks, was unaware that he was in the hospital when she assumed some of his responsibilities, reported US media. Mr. Austin, 70, entered the hospital on 1 January and resumed his full duties on 7 January, but the Pentagon did not inform senior defense officials or even the White House until after the fact. Questions are now being raised about the lack of transparency regarding his medical situation.
The defense secretary underwent an elective medical procedure on 22 December, which led to severe pain and subsequent hospitalization. A Pentagon spokesman revealed that even as Mr. Austin assumes his full duties, he is still believed to be at Walter Reed and no timeline has been provided for his release. Despite this, the Biden administration has voiced its support for Mr. Austin, stating that President Joe Biden has no plans to replace him, and is focused on his recovery and return to the Pentagon.
The situation has drawn significant attention and concern from members of both parties, as well as key officials within the chain of command, who were left uninformed of Mr. Austin’s hospitalization. This lack of disclosure has raised questions about the transparency and accountability within the Pentagon and has potentially put the integrity of the chain of command at risk, according to prominent political figures. Critics and lawmakers are calling for additional details on Mr. Austin’s health and the decision-making process that unfolded during his hospitalization. Some Republicans have even gone so far as to call for Mr. Austin to be fired.
