In a breaking news announcement, the Department of Defense revealed that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin will undergo a non-surgical procedure on Friday night due to a previous bladder issue. This procedure is described as “scheduled, elective, and minimally invasive,” and will be performed at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. In Austin’s absence, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks will temporarily assume his functions as acting secretary.
This is not the first time Austin has faced health issues this year. In February, he was hospitalized for an “emergent bladder issue,” marking his second hospitalization in 2021. Earlier in the year, he had complications from surgery for prostate cancer, which led to another hospital stay. However, the Department of Defense clarified that the current bladder issue is not related to his prostate cancer diagnosis.
This news comes after Austin and the Department of Defense came under fire for not disclosing his previous hospitalization in January. The incident, which was swept under the rug without prior warning to the White House or Deputy Secretary Hicks, sparked outrage from Republican lawmakers. Senator Tom Cotton warned of “consequences” for Austin’s actions, while Representative Jim Banks called it an “embarrassment.” Despite the controversy, President Joe Biden expressed his complete trust and confidence in Austin, according to Politico.
Austin later apologized for his handling of the situation, admitting that he did not handle it properly and taking full responsibility for the department’s actions. He also discussed his cancer diagnosis, calling it a “gut punch” and revealing that his initial instinct was to keep it private. As this story continues to develop, updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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