Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s Hospitalization Controversy: Explained

On December 22, 2023, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who oversees the Defense Department by acting as policymaker, was hospitalized after receiving treatment for prostate cancer due to complications. Shortly thereafter, Lloyd Austin experienced “severe pain”, which led to him being put in intensive care on January 1st. There were various complications including nausea, abdominal and hip pain, a urinary tract infection, abdominal fluid collections, etc. Lloyd Austin is still in recovery at the intensive care facility. 

Following Secretary Lloyd Austin’s procedures, there has been controversy as the White House was not informed of the procedure. It is important for the White House to be informed as the role of Defense Secretary entails watching over the United States’ national security. President Joe Biden and others within the Pentagon were unaware of the ongoing events. Even more startling, they were not informed for multiple days. Biden supports Austin despite his not informing him of his condition. Biden responded to a question of whether he has confidence in Secretary Lloyd Austin with “I do.” The Defense Secretary will be continuing his job. 

The Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder has responded to the press, addressing the fact that the White House did not know that the Secretary of Defense was hospitalized, by saying, “[B]ottom line is we know we can do better, and we will do better,” Ryder said. Responsibility is being taken as Ryder explains that “immediate steps [are being taken] to improve [the government’s] notification procedures.”

by MADELEINE HODGES