Politics News: US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Discharged from Hospital
TL/DR –
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was hospitalized for two weeks due to complications from prostate cancer surgery and an ensuing infection, which he kept secret from senior administration officials including President Biden. His secrecy triggered reviews on procedures for notifying the White House if an official needs to transfer decision-making authorities. Austin was criticized by members of Congress, some of whom called for his resignation, although the White House has assured his job remains secure.
Pentagon Chief Recovers From Post-Surgery Infection
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has returned home after a 2-week hospital stay following undisclosed prostate cancer surgery.
Austin, 70, underwent prostate cancer surgery at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on December 22, but was rehospitalized with an infection leading to intensive care admission on January 1. He continued to receive treatment due to residual leg pain caused by the infection.
Austin was discharged on Monday and is anticipated to continue recovery at home, as confirmed in a Pentagon statement. The senior officials and the president were not informed about his hospitalization until January 4, while his cancer diagnosis was kept under wraps till January 9.
Despite Austin’s decision to withhold his health status, President Biden reaffirmed his confidence in him. Nonetheless, the scenario sparked administration and Defense Department reviews on the protocols to be followed when an official might need to delegate decision-making powers.
Austin’s secrecy also faced backlashes from Congressional members across the political spectrum, with Alabama Republican Representative Mike Rogers initiating a formal investigation into the issue. Some, including former president Trump, called for Austin’s resignation, but the White House assured Austin’s position is secure.
During Austin’s time in the hospital, he managed calls with senior military leaders to oversee military strikes on the Houthis in Yemen from his bed. This action was in response to attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea.
Austin enthusiastically engaged in discussions with military leaders, including General Erik Kurilla, head of the US Central Command, monitoring the strikes via secure video.
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