Defense Secretary Austin hospitalized for bladder issue, in critical care unit
OAN’s James Meyers
2:00 PM – Monday, February 12, 2024
After being hospitalized once, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been placed back in the hospital at Walter Reed for an “emergent bladder issue,” and has transferred his duties to the deputy defense secretary, according to Pentagon officials.
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen Patrick S.Ryder confirmed Austin was at the Walter Reed National Medical Center in a press conference, adding that the deputy defense secretary, joint chiefs of staff, White House and Congress have all been notified.
Ryder said Austin was transported by his security detail to Walter Reed on Sunday, also adding that he is taking over the functions and duties of his office in the meantime.
“The Deputy Secretary is prepared to assume the functions and duties of the Secretary of Defense, if required,” the statement read. “Secretary Austin traveled to the hospital with the unclassified and classified communications systems necessary to perform his duties.”
The latest hospitalization comes as Austin was set to lead a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) in Brussels, followed by a meeting of the NATO Defense Ministerial. The Defense Secretary attended the previous meeting of the UDCG on January 23rd virtually from his home.
Meanwhile, Austin has faced scrutiny for not notifying the Biden Administration of his previous hospitalization and his diagnosis with prostate cancer. He is scheduled to testify before the House Armed Services Committee for the failed debacle.
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How can the lack of transparency in notifying the Biden Administration about Austin’s health condition affect ongoing international security concerns?
Subsequent transfer of duties. The Pentagon Press Secretary addressed this issue, stating that Austin was hospitalized once before, but it was for a different health issue and was not deemed necessary to inform the administration.
It remains unclear how long Austin will remain in the hospital or the severity of his condition. However, the deputy defense secretary, Kathleen H. Hicks, will take over his duties in the interim. The joint chiefs of staff, White House, and Congress have also been notified of the situation.
The news of Austin’s hospitalization comes at a critical time, as he was supposed to lead important meetings regarding the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and NATO Defense Ministerial. These meetings play a significant role in addressing ongoing international security concerns.
Critics have raised questions about the lack of transparency in not notifying the Biden Administration about Austin’s previous hospitalization. Transparency and communication within the government are essential, particularly when it concerns the well-being of high-ranking officials who hold critical positions in national security.
It is crucial for the public and the administration to be aware of the health status of key government officials, especially those responsible for defense and security matters. Transparency fosters trust and ensures that the necessary steps are taken to fill any leadership gaps during a temporary absence or incapacity.
As Secretary Austin undergoes treatment at Walter Reed, the focus should be on his health and recovery. However, this incident serves as a reminder that open communication and transparency are vital in government operations.
The American public expects and deserves transparency from their elected officials and those entrusted with crucial roles in the government. Updates and timely information on the health status of officials should be provided to maintain public trust and ensure the smooth functioning of important duties.
In conclusion, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization and subsequent transfer of duties raise concerns about transparency and communication within the government. Informed and timely updates regarding the health of high-ranking officials are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the continuity of important leadership roles.
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