The Pentagon’s internal watchdog, Robert P. Storch, announced on Thursday that he will conduct a review of the secrecy surrounding Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization and the delay in informing the White House about the transfer of his authority to his deputy. This move comes as Austin, aged 70, remains in the hospital for complications arising from prostate cancer surgery.
The failure to disclose Austin’s hospitalization has faced criticism from both political parties, with some calling for his resignation. The situation has also raised questions about the ability of the civilian head of the U.S. military to step away from responsibility without notice.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby addressed concerns about tracking officials’ whereabouts and stated that there were limits to how closely the government could monitor them. However, he acknowledged that procedures might need to change to improve transparency and communication regarding such situations.
Storch’s review will assess various aspects related to Austin’s hospitalization, including roles, processes, procedures, responsibilities, and actions. It will also evaluate whether Pentagon policies and procedures are sufficient to ensure timely notifications and effective transitions of authorities when senior leadership is unavailable due to health issues or other reasons.
Both the White House and the Pentagon are conducting their own reviews in response to the incident. Austin was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on December 22, underwent surgery for prostate cancer, and developed an infection a week later, leading to intensive care treatment starting on January 1. However, President Joe Biden and senior administration officials were not informed until January 4, and Austin only revealed his cancer diagnosis on January 11.
The incident prompted the formalization of policies that require notifications when a Cabinet member transfers authority to a deputy due to any form of unavailability, whether for medical treatment or other reasons. This includes situations when the secretary is traveling and lacks immediate access to secure communications.
Members of Congress from both parties have criticized Austin’s secrecy. Rep. Mike Rogers, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, initiated a formal inquiry into the matter. Sen. Roger Wicker, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, welcomed the inspector general’s review and expressed concerns about Austin’s absence from doctors or Defense Department officials.
The extent of the impact of Austin’s cancer treatment on his future travel and public engagements remains uncertain, with Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks assuming some of his daily responsibilities during his recovery.
