Congresswoman Tenney Slams Secretary of Defense Austin for Hiding His Hospitalization from Top National Security Officials

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today led a group of colleagues in sending a letter to the Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, demanding answers on the Department of Defense’s lack of transparency surrounding Austin’s recent hospitalization. 

Additional co-signers of the letter include Reps. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), Jen Kiggans (VA), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Jeff Duncan (R-SC), Michael Lawler (R-NY), Randy Weber, Sr. (R-TX), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Max Miller (R-OH), Christopher Smith (R-NJ), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Rich McCormick (R-GA), Ben Cline (R-VA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Thomas Kean Jr. (R-NJ), Aaron Bean (R-FL), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Mike Carey (R-OH), Scott Perry (R-PA), Carol Miller (R-WV), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA).

On December 22, 2023, Secretary Austin underwent an initial medical procedure while on leave and was released the next day. Yet a week later, Austin was abruptly admitted to the ICU and was unable to discharge the duties of his office. Austin failed to properly notify top national security officials, including congressional leadership, the Deputy Defense Secretary, the President, the National Security Advisor, and other members of the National Security Council, about his hospitalization until three days later. At a time when the United States is actively engaged in multiple international conflicts, it is vital that our nation’s national security infrastructure have clear communication.

“While I am sorry to hear about Secretary Austin’s cancer diagnosis and wish him a speedy recovery, his failure to disclose his recent hospitalization jeopardized our national security,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “With international conflicts raging around the globe, it is imperative that there is a clear chain of command and communication. Our brave service members at Fort Drum, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, and beyond cannot leave without informing their superiors, and neither can Secretary Austin. Today, I sent a letter to Secretary Austin demanding answers for his lack of transparency and DOD policy regarding unreported absences. I remain committed to demanding transparency from the corrupt Biden administration while ensuring the safety and security of our nation.”

Read the full text of the letter here.