"Controversy and Concern as GOP Reacts to Sec. Austin's Undisclosed Hospitalization"
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was hospitalized due to complications from an elective surgery and remained at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center as of Saturday evening. The Pentagon delayed informing the public and the White House about his condition, which has drawn criticism for lack of transparency. Austin has resumed his duties, and Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks was ready to step in if necessary. The nature of the surgery has not been disclosed, and the delay in communication has been deemed "unacceptable" by some members of Congress and the Pentagon Press Association.