Staff Reports
The Department of Defense is under fire from Republican lawmakers after it was revealed that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was secretly hospitalized for days without informing top officials or the public. GOP members are demanding answers and consequences for the lack of transparency surrounding this concerning situation.
Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS), ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, condemned the Department’s lack of transparency as “unacceptable.” He stressed that when a top leader like the Defense Secretary is unable to carry out their duties, it is crucial for military families, Congress, and the American public to be fully informed. Wicker also pointed out that this episode further undermines trust in the Biden Administration, which has a track record of failing to promptly inform the public about critical events.
Republicans Demand Answers from the Pentagon After It Hid Austin’s Hospitalization https://t.co/UHjU3lGnbY pic.twitter.com/Oc9ni6Q4wV
— ForthRight Strategy (@ForthRightStrat) January 8, 2024
Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AK) echoed Wicker’s sentiments, calling for immediate consequences in light of the Department’s failure to notify President Biden or the National Security Council about Austin’s hospitalization. Cotton emphasized the pivotal role of the Secretary of Defense, especially in time-sensitive situations, and demanded accountability for what he deemed a “shocking breakdown.”
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) added to the chorus of criticism, highlighting the failure of the nation’s top defense priority. The Republicans unanimously stressed the gravity of the situation and the necessity for holding the Department of Defense accountable for its lack of transparency.
Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder confirmed that Austin was hospitalized due to complications following a recent elective medical procedure, but the delayed revelation of this critical information has raised serious concerns among Republican leaders.
Amidst this controversy, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks was reportedly prepared to step in and exercise the Secretary’s powers if necessary. However, it was revealed that Hicks was on vacation in Puerto Rico during the time of Austin’s hospitalization, further amplifying the Republican outrage.
Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) expressed deep concern, emphasizing the apparent lack of awareness within the administration regarding Austin’s hospitalization. He critiqued Austin’s performance as Defense Secretary and called for his replacement with someone who prioritizes military preparedness over what he perceives as the Biden administration’s “woke” political agenda.
Republicans are resolute in their demand for accountability and transparency from the Department of Defense, and they remain steadfast in their pursuit of answers and consequences for what they perceive as a severe lack of leadership and transparency within the Biden Administration’s defense apparatus.
