Defense Secretary Hospitalization Raises Concerns About Chain of Command
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Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was hospitalized on Jan 1st, but the public and President Biden weren't informed until Jan 4th/5th. This raised concerns about the chain of command.
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Austin was hospitalized for complications from prostate cancer treatment. He is now back at work after recovering.
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Confusion and miscommunication resulted from Austin's chief of staff being sick at the same time he was hospitalized. Deputy Sec Hicks assumed some duties but did not know Austin was hospitalized.
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While there was no direct national security impact, the situation exposed weaknesses in communication protocols and backup systems intended to ensure civilian control.
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The White House has expressed support for Austin staying on, but he will likely have to explain the situation to Congress. Republicans are calling for his resignation.