New York – The White House revealed on Tuesday that President Joe Biden was only informed about US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s battle with cancer earlier that day. Austin, 70, was admitted to the hospital on January 1st and subsequently moved to the intensive care unit due to complications following surgery in December. The delayed notification to President Biden has drawn criticism, raising concerns about national security and transparency within the Biden administration. As the defense secretary holds a crucial position in the chain of command for the US military, the timing of the disclosure has sparked inquiries. The Pentagon confirmed that Austin is still receiving treatment in the hospital.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby acknowledged during a press briefing that none of the officials at the White House were aware of Austin’s prostate cancer until that morning. While the president expressed immediate concern for the secretary’s health, Kirby admitted that the communication in this situation was “not optimal.” There have been no recent conversations between President Biden and Secretary Austin, according to Kirby.
In December 2023, doctors discovered early-stage prostate cancer during a routine check-up for Austin. On December 22nd, he underwent a minimally invasive surgical procedure at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to remove the cancer. Though Austin experienced complications following the procedure, doctors assure that his prognosis is excellent. After being readmitted to the hospital on January 1st due to complications and a urinary tract infection, Austin was transferred to the intensive care unit the next day.
The delayed disclosure of Austin’s condition has sparked a review of notification procedures within the Pentagon. Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj Gen Pat Ryder, during a briefing, did not provide an explanation as to why Austin did not reveal his diagnosis earlier. Ryder only mentioned that a prostate cancer diagnosis is deeply personal. Meanwhile, White House chief of staff Jeff Zients has directed members of the president’s Cabinet to notify when they are unable to perform their duties.
It remains unclear when Secretary Austin will be discharged from the hospital, but his spokesperson noted that he is recovering well and in good spirits. The president’s Cabinet has been urged to provide notice of their health conditions, and the Pentagon is working to improve its notification process. President Biden’s late awareness of Austin’s cancer treatment sparks questions over transparency and raises national security concerns.
In conclusion, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recent diagnosis of prostate cancer and subsequent hospitalization has drawn attention for the delayed notification to President Biden. This has led to inquiries about transparency within the Biden administration and potential national security implications. Despite the criticism, Austin’s doctors maintain that his prognosis is excellent, and he continues to make progress in his recovery. The Pentagon is now conducting a review of its notification procedures to ensure better communication in the future.