Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was transported to the hospital on Sunday due to symptoms indicating a potential emergent bladder issue, as stated by the Pentagon.
In response to his hospitalization, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks assumed the duties of his office on Sunday afternoon. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder noted that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the White House, and Congress had been informed of the situation.
As of Sunday evening, Austin remained hospitalized, according to the Pentagon.
This announcement comes shortly after Austin’s diagnosis of prostate cancer in early December, which led to hospitalization on Dec. 22 for a related procedure. Following this procedure, Austin transferred his authority to Hicks, although neither she nor President Biden were aware of his hospitalization. Subsequently, Austin was hospitalized again on Jan. 1 due to complications from the initial procedure. Biden was not informed of this hospitalization until Jan. 4.
Criticism from members of Congress ensued, accusing Austin of concealing his diagnosis and treatment from the president and lawmakers. Consequently, Austin held a press conference earlier in the month to apologize, taking full responsibility for the situation.
Regarding Austin’s current hospitalization, the Pentagon has reported that his security detail transported him to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and they will provide updates on his condition as necessary.