Defense Secretary Austin's Hospitalization Unbeknownst to Deputy
Last week, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin transferred authorities to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks without informing her of his hospitalization, according to officials.
Deputy Unaware of Austin's Hospitalization
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin passed authority to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks last week without informing her that he had been hospitalized with a serious medical condition, according to senior administration officials.
On January 2, after being admitted to the hospital, Austin transferred authorities that required constant secure communications capabilities to Hicks, who was on vacation in Puerto Rico at the time.
Hicks, who always has a complete suite of communications and capable staff with her regardless of her location, assumed Austin's responsibilities from the U.S. territory.
Delayed Awareness and Continuation of Duties
However, Hicks was not aware of Austin's hospitalization until January 4, according to a senior defense official. Austin had been in the intensive care unit due to complications from an elective procedure.
Upon learning of the situation, Hicks began preparing a statement to inform the public and Congress and made plans to return to Washington. Nevertheless, she remained in Puerto Rico after being informed that Austin intended to fully resume his duties on Friday.
Throughout the period, Hicks made routine decisions for the department and was authorized to support President Joe Biden in accordance with the law.
Austin's Involvement in Drone Strike
On January 4, the Pentagon carried out a drone strike in Iraq that targeted and killed the leader of an Iranian-backed militia who had planned attacks against U.S. troops in the region.
According to a second official, Austin was aware of and tracking the drone strike from his hospital room. The strike had been pre-approved by the president.
Despite his hospitalization, Austin remained involved in crucial matters of national security.
