In a recent interview, former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta expressed his concerns over the lack of transparency regarding the hospitalization of current Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin. Panetta, who also served as CIA director and White House Chief of Staff, emphasized the importance of cabinet members promptly informing the President and the national security team when they are incapacitated.
Panetta highlighted the critical nature of Austin's role in the chain of command for national security, particularly during a period of intense international turmoil, including crises in Ukraine, Israel, the Middle East, and China. He praised Austin's performance as Secretary of Defense but emphasized the need for him to quickly inform key stakeholders if he is unable to perform his duties due to health issues.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also weighed in on the situation, expressing his shock at the lack of disclosure about Austin's hospitalization. He raised concerns about the national security implications of not knowing whether the Secretary of Defense is in the intensive care unit.
While Austin has accepted full responsibility for the lack of communication, Panetta stressed that it is crucial for all cabinet members to understand the importance of promptly informing the White House and the President when facing health-related challenges. He further emphasized that the public's awareness of the Secretary of Defense's health is essential since it directly impacts national security.
The former Secretary of Defense also addressed the need for transparency and accountability in this situation. Panetta acknowledged that people's health issues may be a private matter, but when it comes to the Secretary of Defense, it becomes a public matter due to the role's critical nature. He expressed confidence that the truth about Austin's health condition would eventually come out, urging the Secretary to openly communicate with the public about his recovery and ability to assume the responsibilities of his position.
Panetta concluded by acknowledging the surprising failure of Austin's aides to report his hospitalization to the White House or even to his deputy, questioning why such crucial information was not relayed effectively. He speculated that the holiday period might have contributed to a lax attitude towards timely reporting but emphasized that national security crises do not take a break, and it is imperative to keep the President and White House informed at all times.
In closing, Panetta expressed his hopes for Austin's complete recovery and reiterated the significance of the Secretary of Defense's robust health to national security.
