Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was discharged from the hospital on Monday, concluding a two-week stay for complications arising from surgery for prostate cancer, a condition he had kept confidential from senior Biden administration officials and staff for several weeks.
Austin, 70, will continue his recovery while working from home. His doctors reported that he has made good progress and is regaining strength. They assured that the cancer, detected early during a routine screening, was treated successfully, and his prognosis is deemed excellent.
Expressing gratitude to the medical staff, Austin stated, “As I continue to recuperate and perform my duties from home, I’m eager to fully recover and return as quickly as possible to the Pentagon.”
Admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Dec. 22, Austin underwent surgery for the cancer. A subsequent infection led to hospitalization on Jan. 1, including a stay in intensive care. During his hospitalization, medical tests were conducted, and treatment for lingering leg pain was administered. Physical therapy is planned, but there are no further cancer treatments scheduled, only regular check-ups.
President Joe Biden and top administration officials were not informed about Austin’s hospitalization until Jan. 4. Austin revealed his cancer diagnosis on Jan. 9, prompting criticism from Biden for not disclosing the hospitalization earlier. Despite this lapse in communication, Biden expressed confidence in Austin.
While at Walter Reed, Austin managed military strikes on the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, coordinating with senior military leaders and participating in White House meetings from his hospital bed.
The lack of transparency surrounding Austin’s hospitalization has triggered reviews within the administration and the Defense Department regarding notification procedures when a Cabinet member delegates decision-making authority to a deputy. White House Chief of Staff has directed Cabinet members to inform his office if they are unable to fulfill their duties.
Austin’s secretive approach has faced criticism from members of Congress, with Rep. Mike Rogers initiating a formal inquiry. Some have called for Austin’s resignation, but the White House maintains confidence in his role. The timeline for Austin’s return to the Pentagon and the impact of cancer treatment on his duties and engagements remain uncertain. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks has assumed some day-to-day responsibilities during Austin’s recovery.
