The Pentagon just announced that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been taken in to the hospital Sunday afternoon “for symptoms suggesting an emergent bladder issue”
“At this time, the Secretary is retaining the functions and duties of his office,” Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said in the released statement.
Austin has encountered significant health problems before. Recently, he experienced difficulties associated with his prostate cancer treatment and spent a considerable amount of time in the hospital.
Last month, Austin faced criticism from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers for his failure to disclose a cancer diagnosis and subsequent hospitalizations in December and January, even to President Joe Biden. Several notable Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, demanded Austin’s removal from his position.
This incident proved to be an embarrassment for President Biden, leading Austin to issue an apology during a televised news briefing. Austin is set to testify before Congress on Feb. 29 regarding this matter. Despite acknowledging a lapse in judgment, President Biden, a Democrat, has expressed his confidence in Austin.
The hospital officials stated on Sunday that the duration of Austin’s hospitalization was uncertain. Additionally, they mentioned that Austin’s cancer prognosis remained positive and his expected full recovery was not affected by the bladder issue.