Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was hospitalized on Sunday due to an emergent bladder issue. This complication arose from his ongoing battle with prostate cancer, which was diagnosed in December. The sudden health concern led to the transfer of his authorities to Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks.
“At this time, the secretary is retaining the duties and functions of his office,” stated Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. Austin was transported to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at about 2:20 p.m. on Sunday by his security detail. However, by 5 p.m. on the same day, he transferred his authorities to Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks. As of Sunday evening, Austin remained hospitalized.
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the White House, and Congress were all notified of the situation. This sudden turn of events has raised questions about the future course of defense affairs, particularly Austin’s scheduled meetings.
Austin was due to depart for Brussels on Tuesday to hold a meeting of the Ukraine contact group, which he established in 2022 to coordinate military support for Kyiv following Russia’s invasion. Following this, Austin was scheduled to attend a regular meeting of NATO defense ministers. However, it remains unclear whether his hospitalization will affect these plans.
Austin’s battle with prostate cancer began in December when he was diagnosed and underwent a procedure called a prostatectomy on Dec. 22. Unfortunately, he developed complications over the following week and was admitted to the intensive care unit at Walter Reed on Jan. 1. He remained there until Jan. 15, after which he continued to recover and work from home. He returned to the Pentagon on Jan. 29.
Despite the complications, Austin’s doctors have previously stated that his prognosis against the cancer is “excellent” and that no further treatments will be needed. However, this is his first unscheduled trip to Walter Reed due to continued complications from his cancer treatments.
Interestingly, Austin did not inform President Joe Biden, Congress, or his deputy defense secretary of his December cancer diagnosis or initial hospitalization for several weeks. This secrecy has sparked an inspector general investigation and a Pentagon internal review.
“We did not handle this right. And I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis. I should have also told my team and the American public, and I take full responsibility,” Austin admitted in a Pentagon briefing.
This incident underscores the importance of health in high-stress, high-responsibility roles such as that of the Defense Secretary. It also highlights the need for transparency in communication, particularly when it pertains to individuals in positions of power. As Austin continues his recovery, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping for his swift return to health and duty. This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.