Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s chief of staff, Kelly Magsamen, is stepping down in the midst of an ongoing review of the handling of Austin's hospitalization for prostate cancer.
ABC News reported that Magsamen’s resignation comes despite being cleared of any wrongdoing by an internal review. The Pentagon announced Magsamen’s resignation on Wednesday, which followed a period of scrutiny over the communication and transparency regarding Austin's medical situation.
Austin, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer late last year, had a minimally invasive procedure. Complications from the procedure led to a second hospitalization on New Year's Day.
The key issue under review was the delay in informing the White House about Austin’s condition.
The White House was not notified until January 4, which was a day before Austin was released from the hospital. During Austin’s incapacitation, his deputy took charge and maintained full access to White House communications.
Austin has publicly acknowledged the mishandling of the situation. "We did not handle this right. And I did not handle this right. And as you know, I have apologized … including directly to the president. And I take full responsibility," Austin stated.
Despite this controversy, an internal review by Austin’s office found no evidence of ill intent or any effort to mislead, which essentially cleared Magsamen of wrongdoing. The review attributed the delay to concerns about medical privacy and the rapidly changing nature of the situation.
Magsamen, who was at home with the flu when she learned of Austin's medical condition, has reportedly decided to step down for reasons unrelated to the hospitalization scandal.
Austin praised Magsamen’s service, lauding her contributions since the beginning of his tenure. "From day one of this administration, Kelly's leadership, counsel, and selfless service made our nation safer, made the lives of our people better and more rewarding, and rendered the heavy burden of this office of mine a good bit lighter," he said. "At every stage, she provided a steady hand guiding our staff and the Department. I am -- and will remain -- in her debt."
However, Republican critics have questioned the findings of the internal review, expressing skepticism about the conclusions drawn, especially in relation to the delay in notifying the White House. They highlighted the need for transparency and accountability within the Department of Defense.
An independent investigation by the Pentagon's inspector general is ongoing, but there is no specified timeline for when the results will be released to the public. This further investigation aims to provide clarity and address any remaining concerns about the handling of Austin’s medical condition.
Despite Austin’s apology and the steps taken to address the issue, the delay in communication raised significant questions about the protocols and transparency within the Pentagon, especially in matters concerning the health of high-ranking officials.
Austin was diagnosed with prostate cancer late last year and underwent a minimally invasive procedure. When complications arose, he was hospitalized again on New Year's Day. The White House was subsequently informed about Austin's condition on January 4, just a day before his release from the hospital.
During the time Austin was incapacitated, his deputy assumed his responsibilities and maintained communication with the White House to ensure continuity in leadership and decision-making processes.
The handling of Austin’s medical condition has prompted a broader discussion about the importance of timely and transparent communication within the Department of Defense. This incident has highlighted the need for clear protocols to manage similar situations in the future.
The departure of Magsamen, a key aide to Austin, marks a significant change in the leadership team. Her resignation, while reportedly unrelated to the hospitalization scandal, comes at a time when the Department of Defense is under intense scrutiny.
In conclusion, Kelly Magsamen’s resignation as the chief of staff to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has come amidst an ongoing review of the handling of Austin’s hospitalization for prostate cancer.
While an internal review has cleared her of wrongdoing, questions about the transparency and communication protocols within the Pentagon remain. Austin’s acknowledgment of responsibility and the ongoing investigation by the Pentagon's inspector general are steps towards addressing these concerns and ensuring future accountability.
