Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had prostate cancer surgery and was later hospitalized in intensive care due to complications from that operation without President Joe Biden, Cabinet members or even his deputy knowing. That revelation has put an intense spotlight on what staff knew when and why they did not inform government or military leaders or the public. Austin has since returned to work, but was hospitalized again Feb. 11 “for symptoms suggesting an emergent bladder issue.” While his doctors have said his prognosis is excellent, Austin’s mobility has been noticeably affected, sometimes using a cane or motorized cart to get around the Pentagon.
