A House committee has summoned Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to testify publicly on February 14, 2024, regarding his failure to disclose hospitalization after complications from prostate cancer.
The request, made by Rep. Mike Rogers, Republican chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, stems from concerns over a lack of transparency and a flawed notification process.
The Call for Transparency
The controversy has raised questions about the decision-makers and the withholding of information from key stakeholders, including the President, Congress, and the American people.
In a letter addressed to Secretary Austin, Chairman Rogers emphasized the necessity for Congress to understand the events surrounding the non-disclosure of the cabinet secretary’s hospitalization. Rogers stated, “Your unwillingness to provide candid and complete answers necessitates calling a Full Committee hearing,” highlighting the importance of Austin’s direct testimony in clarifying decisions made during the notification process.
The Pentagon has faced criticism for its lack of transparency and the communication lapse that left top officials and the White House unaware of Austin’s condition for days.
A 30-day review of the notification process has been initiated, with the Defense Department inspector general conducting a parallel investigation.
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Austin Controversy: Rogers Demands Answers, Pentagon Responds
Chairman Rogers expressed concern over Secretary Austin’s refusal to provide satisfactory answers during a recent phone conversation.
Rogers indicated that Austin did not respond to critical questions about the decision to withhold information from the President and others. The chairman presented a list of questions that he expects Austin to address during the public testimony, underscoring the need for full honesty and cooperation.
Pentagon spokesperson Jeff Jurgensen confirmed the receipt of Rogers’ request and provided letters from other committees as part of a good-faith effort to cooperate with ongoing reviews.
Secretary Austin, in one of the letters, clarified that there were no gaps in authorities or risks to command-and-control during his hospitalization. Austin acknowledged responsibility for his personal decisions related to the disclosure of his cancer diagnosis and expressed a commitment to transparency.
Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, in a separate letter to Chairman Rogers, assured that there were no gaps in authorities or risks to command-and-control during Austin’s hospitalization.
Hicks, who learned of Austin’s hospitalization days after the fact, emphasized the continued preparedness to support the President as Commander-in-Chief throughout Austin’s care.
The controversy surrounding Secretary Austin’s undisclosed hospitalization has prompted a call for transparency and accountability.
The upcoming public testimony is expected to shed light on the decision-making process and address lingering questions, providing clarity on a matter that has raised concerns about transparency within the Department of Defense.
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