"Outrage and Confusion as Pentagon Delays Informing White House of Defense Secretary's Hospitalization"

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks was not informed that she was assuming some of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's duties due to his hospitalization following complications from elective surgery. The lack of communication extended to President Biden and other senior officials, raising concerns about transparency within the administration. Austin, who was in the ICU at Walter Reed, remained involved in operations, including pre-authorizing a military strike. Despite the situation, the White House maintains confidence in Austin, who has committed to improving transparency regarding the incident.