North Michigan News

Jan 11, 2024

Rep. Jack Bergman and other Republican members of the House Armed Services Committee have sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, demanding immediate answers regarding his recent disappearance and failure to ensure a smooth transition of authority. The letter, signed by all Republican members of the committee, expresses concern over the lack of transparency and confusion surrounding Austin's whereabouts and capacity to lead the Department of Defense.

The letter states, "With conflicts around the world, it is preposterous that you and others in the Department allowed this to occur. This level of confusion surrounding not only your whereabouts, but your capacity to lead the Department has shaken what little confidence existed in any previous commitment to transparency."

The committee has also transmitted inquiries to Deputy Secretary Hicks and Ms. Magsamen regarding the unannounced disappearance and absence of Secretary Austin. The committee emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the urgency for a response. They question the Department's claim that the transfer of authorities was "clean" and "routine," stating that such a situation should never have occurred in the first place and should not have taken days to clarify.

The committee, along with Congress, the public, and even the Biden Administration, is demanding clear answers about the decisions that led to Deputy Secretary Hicks not understanding that she was acting as the Secretary of Defense and the White House being unaware of the same.

While acknowledging the desire for privacy regarding medical issues, the committee emphasizes that the presence of the Secretary of Defense must be clear for the Commander in Chief to rely on their guidance. They accuse Secretary Austin of failing to ensure a smooth transition of authority to his deputy and disclosure to relevant officials.

The committee is dissatisfied with the Department's response thus far, including a review initiated by Ms. Magsamen and a review of protocols for delegating authority by the White House chief of staff. They believe these actions are inadequate and insist on a prompt response to their questions without further delay.

The Department of Defense and the military institutions are known for their robustness and ability to handle global-scale attacks from enemies. However, they are not equipped to handle a Secretary of Defense attempting to conceal incapacity. The committee highlights the need for transparency and clear leadership within the Department.

In conclusion, Rep. Jack Bergman and other Republican members of the House Armed Services Committee are demanding answers from Secretary Austin regarding his disappearance and failure to ensure a smooth transition of authority. They emphasize the need for transparency and clear leadership within the Department of Defense. The committee expects a prompt response to their inquiries without further delay.

To find out more, go to this link: https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1163