Austin Transfers Power for Medical Procedure, Unrelated to Cancer Diagnosis

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin underwent a scheduled, nonsurgical procedure on Friday for a follow-up to a previous bladder issue, the Pentagon said. Austin transferred power to Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks during the procedure.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin temporarily transferred power to Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks on Friday evening for a scheduled, elective, and minimally invasive procedure at Walter Reed Medical Center.

According to a statement released by the Pentagon, the procedure was unrelated to Austin's previous diagnosis of prostate cancer. It involved a follow-up treatment for a bladder issue that Austin experienced earlier this year.

Austin resumed his duties as Secretary of Defense at 8:25 p.m. ET on Friday night, following the successful completion of the procedure.

The Pentagon emphasized that the White House and Congress had been notified of Austin's temporary inability to perform his duties during the procedure.

Austin's hospitalization for prostate cancer diagnosis in December and January had raised concerns about transparency and communication within the Pentagon. He initially did not inform the White House of his diagnosis for several days, and it took even longer for the public to learn about his condition.

In response to the criticism, the White House established new guidelines at the end of January for Cabinet heads to follow when they are unable to perform their duties and need to delegate authority.

Some Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, had called for Austin's resignation over the handling of his health situation. Trump stated on Truth Social that Austin should be fired for "improper professional conduct and dereliction of duty."

However, the White House reaffirmed its support for Austin, and in February, he apologized for his lack of transparency. "We did not handle this right," Austin said at the time. "I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis."

Austin's bladder issue, which necessitated his hospitalization on February 11, is also unrelated to his cancer diagnosis. The Pentagon has stated that it has had no impact on his excellent cancer prognosis.

The Pentagon added that an update on Austin's condition will be provided following the procedure.

Austin's transfer of power is a standard procedure for high-level officials undergoing medical treatment. It ensures that the Department of Defense continues to operate smoothly and efficiently while the Secretary is unable to perform his duties.