Pentagon Watchdog to Probe Communication Lapses Over Austin Hospitalization
• Pentagon inspector general to investigate mishandling of information about Defense Secretary Austin's hospitalization • They will examine roles, processes, and responsibilities related to Austin's hospitalization and notification issues • Goal is to assess if Pentagon policies ensure timely notifications and effective leadership transitions when senior officials are unavailable • Lack of transparency about Austin's condition concerning; senator calls it a "learning experience" to prevent similar issues • Questions remain about extent of communication between Austin and President Biden