House Armed Services Committee Chairman Launches Investigation into Defense Secretary’s Hospitalization
Introduction
House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) has initiated a formal congressional investigation into Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recent hospitalization. Rogers is demanding a detailed account of Austin’s stay and how he communicated his absence to Pentagon and Biden administration officials.
Outrageous Concealment
Rogers, an Alabama Republican, criticized Austin for concealing his admittance to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on January 1st after complications from a December surgery to treat prostate cancer. In letters to Austin, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, and Austin’s Chief of Staff Kelly Magsamen, Rogers described Austin’s actions as “outrageous.”
Unacceptable Lack of Understanding
Rogers scolded Austin in his letter, stating that it is unacceptable for the White House and even Austin’s own Deputy to not understand the nature of his condition. With ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, Rogers emphasized the importance of clear decision-making capacity from the Secretary of Defense.
Detailed Account Demanded
Rogers demanded that Austin provide a detailed account of any medical sedation or general anesthesia that occurred during his hospitalization. He also requested an accounting of all official actions taken or approved by Austin during that time. Additionally, Rogers sought information on Austin’s efforts to pass his responsibilities onto Hicks and whether she took any action while filling in for him.
Written Communications and Cancer Diagnosis
Rogers requested all written communications regarding Austin’s health, medical procedures, whereabouts, and operational capability to lead the Department. He also sought communications between the Pentagon and Biden administration officials during Austin’s hospitalization. It wasn’t until Tuesday that Austin notified President Biden, his subordinates, and the public of his cancer diagnosis.
Review of Incident
Austin’s Chief of Staff, Kelly Magsamen, announced that the Department of Defense’s director of administration and management would immediately lead a review of the incident. The review will evaluate the processes and procedures through which Hicks was notified to carry out Austin’s functions. A Pentagon spokesman blamed Magsamen for the delayed notification, citing her absence due to illness.
Conclusion
The investigation launched by House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers aims to shed light on Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization and the communication surrounding it. The inquiry seeks to ensure transparency and accountability within the Department of Defense.
