Emerald Coast Times

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) has called on Chairman Mike Rodgers and the House Armed Services Committee to hold a hearing regarding Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's hospitalization. In a statement released today, Congressman Gaetz expressed concern over the lack of communication surrounding Secretary Austin's four-day stay in the intensive care unit on New Year's Day.

According to a breaking news report, Secretary Austin was quietly admitted to the ICU, with Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks taking over his duties while on vacation in Puerto Rico. Congressman Gaetz emphasized the importance of the Secretary of Defense's role as the linchpin in commanding and controlling the armed forces, stating that the failure to inform the White House, Congress, and the American people reflects a lack of leadership, competency, and transparency within the Biden administration.

"The White House has already signaled that Secretary Austin will face no consequences as a result of this scandal," said Congressman Gaetz. He called on Chairman Mike Rodgers and the House Armed Services Committee to take immediate action by holding a hearing and receiving testimony from Secretary Lloyd Austin and Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks. The hearing would address Austin's absence and Hicks' failure to return from vacation to perform her duties.

The statement from Congressman Gaetz highlights the concern among lawmakers regarding the communication and transparency within the Biden administration. The call for a hearing reflects the need for accountability and a thorough understanding of the events surrounding Secretary Austin's hospitalization.

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To find out more, go to this link: https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gaetz-calls-house-armed-services-committee-launch-hearing