Bipartisan Criticism of Austin, Pentagon as Democrats Join GOP

Senate Democrats, along with their Republican counterparts, have raised concerns about Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and the Pentagon’s handling of his recent hospitalization.

This week, the Pentagon released a classified review of the events surrounding Austin’s hospital stay, which was prompted by complications from a procedure to treat prostate cancer. Austin publicly acknowledged that he mishandled the situation and expressed regret for not being more transparent about his cancer diagnosis.

“I should have disclosed my cancer diagnosis to the president, my team, and the American public. I take full responsibility for my actions,” Austin stated during a press conference.

After a classified briefing on the matter, senators conveyed their dissatisfaction with Austin and the Pentagon’s handling of the situation.

“The secretary has accepted responsibility; it’s clear that he bears responsibility,” said Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., in an interview with Politico. “Leaders set the tone for their team.”

Shaheen also mentioned that the report indicated there was no ill-intent behind Austin and his team’s actions.

Meanwhile, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., called for the public release of the classified report.

“I have significant questions about how this apparent concealment was managed by the Pentagon, and I believe there should be public accountability,” Blumenthal stated. “Whether disciplinary action is warranted remains to be seen, but the facts should be made known.”