Former President Donald Trump has called for the immediate firing of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, citing “improper professional conduct and dereliction of duty.” Trump’s demand, made via a post on Truth Social, comes in the wake of revelations that Austin did not inform President Joe Biden about his hospitalization for several days.
Trump criticized Austin for his absence during critical times, as conflicts continue in Gaza and Ukraine. He also condemned Austin’s performance, particularly referencing the “catastrophic surrender in Afghanistan,” which he labeled as one of the most embarrassing moments in U.S. history.
The controversy began when Austin was admitted to the intensive care unit of Walter Reed Army Medical Center on New Year’s Day following complications from an elective surgery. Despite this, neither President Biden nor Austin’s deputy, Kathleen Hicks, were informed of his hospitalization for three days. Hicks was on vacation in Puerto Rico at the time.
This lack of communication has led to calls from various politicians and Pentagon officials for Austin to address the secrecy surrounding his absence. Former Vice President Mike Pence, speaking on CNN’s “State of the Union,” described the situation as a dereliction of duty and called for transparency from the administration.
In Congress, Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Representative Jim Banks (R-Ind.) have also criticized the Pentagon for failing to inform Congress as required by law. They emphasized the need for the American people to be aware of the circumstances when a National Command authority is unable to perform their duties.
Austin, who has resumed his duties, acknowledged the concerns about transparency in a statement. He admitted that he could have done a better job ensuring the public was informed and committed to improving communication in the future.
This incident has sparked a debate over the communication protocols within the Pentagon and the administration’s transparency regarding the health and availability of key national security figures.