America: The Biden administration finds itself grappling with a major controversy as it was disclosed on Tuesday that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin underwent surgery for prostate cancer and subsequently battled a urinary tract infection, all kept under wraps until the public announcement. Astonishingly, President Joe Biden only learned about Austin’s health issues on Tuesday, according to the White House.
The 70-year-old Austin was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on December 22, 2023, for surgery related to prostate cancer. A week later, he developed a urinary tract infection, as revealed by doctors on Tuesday. Astonishingly, senior administration and defense officials were not informed for days about Austin’s hospitalization or his cancer diagnosis.
The lack of transparency extended even to Austin’s deputy, Kathleen Hicks, who was kept in the dark for days, despite being asked to assume some of his duties on January 2. President Biden spoke with Austin on Saturday, raising questions about the delay in notifying the commander-in-chief.
“White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients has since ordered cabinet members to promptly inform his office if they are unable to perform their duties. The Biden administration, facing backlash over the delayed disclosure of Austin’s health issues, is now undergoing a policy review”.
While the Pentagon assured an upbeat outlook for Austin’s recovery, the slow process was acknowledged, emphasizing that his infection has cleared, and he continues to make progress. However, the undisclosed hospitalization has led to calls for Austin’s resignation or termination from four Republican former military pilots serving in the House of Representatives.
Austin spent four days in the intensive care unit after returning to the hospital on January 1 due to the infection. Despite the reassurances about his recovery, the controversy surrounding the secrecy of his health concerns has ignited a political firestorm, raising questions about transparency and communication within the highest echelons of the Biden administration.
