Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Continues Duties Amid Hospitalization

Delayed disclosure of Austin's hospitalization prompts calls for transparency; President Biden maintains full confidence in Pentagon leader.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin remains hospitalized nearly two weeks after being admitted due to complications from surgery for prostate cancer. His condition is reported as 'good' and he continues to monitor DOD's day-to-day operations worldwide.
The Pentagon publicly revealed Austin's hospitalization on Jan. 5, four days after he was admitted. This delay in disclosure prompted bipartisan concern and calls for more transparency.
Despite his hospitalization, Austin has no plans to resign and continues to conduct his duties as secretary of defense.
Austin's chief of staff, Kelly Magsamen, was aware of Austin’s hospitalization on Jan. 2 but did not inform Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, who took on some of Austin's duties during his initial hospital stay.
President Biden has expressed full trust and confidence in Austin, despite acknowledging a lapse in judgment for Austin not to inform him about his condition.