WASHINGTON, D.C. — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for complications arising from a non-emergency medical procedure, the Pentagon announced on Friday. The hospitalization occurred on New Year’s Day, but the public was not notified until four days later. Major General Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, did not mention the hospitalization during a news briefing the day before. The statement released by the Pentagon provided no specific details about the procedure or the complications, only stating that Austin is “recovering well.” While Austin remains in the hospital, it is expected that he will resume his full duties later on Friday. However, the date of his release has not been disclosed.
When asked about the delayed notification, Ryder explained that “a number of other factors” had to be considered, including medical and privacy issues. The Pentagon declined to comment on whether Austin was unconscious at any point during his hospitalization or if he was ever in critical condition.
As the defense secretary, Austin holds a crucial position in the Biden administration’s Cabinet and is the military’s civilian leader, making his role one of utmost importance in national security. This comes at a time when the United States is facing increased tensions in the Middle East.
Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks is prepared to act and exercise the powers of the secretary if necessary, according to Ryder. The failure to publicly announce Austin’s hospitalization has been criticized for breaking with past precedent.
The Pentagon Press Association expressed its outrage in a letter directed to Ryder and Chris Meagher, the defense secretary’s assistant for public affairs. The association emphasized that the public has a right to know when Cabinet members are hospitalized or incapacitated due to medical procedures. In contrast, during President Joe Biden’s routine colonoscopy in 2021, the public was informed in advance that power would be temporarily transferred to Vice President Kamala Harris.
The delayed notification of Austin’s hospitalization raises concerns as the United States faces multiple national security issues abroad. These include attacks on US troops in the Middle East, Houthi launches from Yemen intercepted by US naval vessels, and conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Notably, during Austin’s hospitalization, the US carried out a strike in Baghdad against the commander of a pro-Iran militia, authorized by Austin prior to his admission.
In conclusion, Defense Secretary Austin’s hospitalization for complications from a non-emergency medical procedure has raised questions about the delayed public notification. As one of the most critical members of the Biden administration’s Cabinet, Austin’s absence has implications for national security. The Pentagon’s failure to adhere to customary disclosure standards has drawn criticism, with calls for greater transparency in situations involving senior officials.