Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin quietly underwent surgery for prostate cancer and later developed a urinary tract infection related to the operation, according to doctors who provided an update on Tuesday. The 70-year-old Austin was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on December 22, where he received treatment for the cancer. The infection occurred a week later, sparking concerns among senior administration and defense officials who were not informed about his hospitalization or diagnosis until days later.
Doctors revealed that Austin’s prostate cancer was detected during a routine screening in early December. He underwent a minimally invasive surgical procedure on December 22 and was discharged the next day. However, on January 1, he complained of severe pain and nausea, which were later attributed to the infection.
Fortunately, Austin’s cancer was caught early, and his prognosis is said to be excellent, according to the doctors. The news of Austin’s illness prompted White House chief of staff, Jeff Zients, to order Cabinet members to inform his office if they are unable to perform their duties in the future. The Biden administration has initiated a policy review in response to the delayed notification about Austin’s hospitalization.
Zients directed Cabinet secretaries to submit existing procedures for delegating authority in case of incapacitation or loss of communication by Friday. The memo emphasized the need for agencies to promptly notify the White House and the office of Cabinet affairs if a Cabinet head is incapable of fulfilling their role due to circumstances such as limited access to communication, hospitalization, or a medical procedure requiring general anesthesia.
The memo also specified that agencies must document any transfer of authorities and ensure that the person assuming the acting role establishes contact with relevant White House staff. The Associated Press obtained a copy of the memo.
It was revealed that Austin had undergone an elective procedure at the hospital, prompting him to temporarily transfer some of his powers to his deputy, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, without disclosing the reason to her. Austin returned home the following day.
However, Austin was readmitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on January 1 after experiencing severe pain and was placed in intensive care. This time, Hicks was informed three days later about the reason for Austin’s hospitalization and power transfer. The White House was only informed on January 4, with the public and Congress learning of it a day after.
In response to the situation, the Pentagon has initiated an internal review and expanded the circle of leaders who would be informed about any delegation of authorities made by the defense secretary in the future. The goal is to ensure proper and timely notification to the President, the White House, Congress, and the American public.
The new notification process will include a wider range of officials, such as the Pentagon’s general counsel, the chair and vice-chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Combatant Commanders, service secretaries, service chiefs of staff, the White House Situation Room, and senior staff of the secretary and deputy secretary of defense.
This incident has highlighted the need for improved communication and transparency within the defense department regarding the health status of top officials. In the meantime, Austin is expected to focus on his recovery and continued duties as Defense Secretary.
