"Defense Secretary Austin Hospitalized for Bladder Issue, Transfers Duties to Deputy"
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin was transferred to the critical care unit at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for supportive care and close monitoring after being hospitalized for symptoms suggesting an emergent bladder issue. His powers have been temporarily transferred to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, and it is unclear how long he will remain hospitalized. This comes after a previous hospitalization for prostate cancer treatment, during which the White House and public were not informed in a timely manner, leading to an apology from Austin.