"White House Stands by Defense Secretary Austin Amid Hospitalization Mystery"

The White House has expressed support for Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after he faced criticism for not disclosing his emergency hospitalization following elective surgery, which led to a secret ICU stay. Austin did not inform White House officials for three days, prompting concerns about national security implications. While some members of Congress have called for his resignation and an investigation, President Biden has maintained confidence in Austin and plans to address communication protocols within the administration.