Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin briefly transfers powers to deputy during medical procedure

WASHINGTON − Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin briefly transferred his authority to his deputy Friday evening while he underwent an elective, non-surgical procedure, the Pentagon announced.

The announcement and procedure for a bladder problem at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center came after Austin and the Pentagon had bungled notification of the White House, Congress and the public in January about his hospitalization for complications from prostate cancer surgery.

Since then, the Pentagon has codified the transfer of authority and prompt notification when the Defense secretary is unable to perform their duties. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks will be in charge of the Pentagon during Austin’s absence.

Austin took days to notify the president and Congress that he had been hospitalized, some of it in intensive care. That lack of candor launched investigations by Congress and the Pentagon’s Inspector General.

The bladder issue is not related to Austin’s cancer treatment, according to a statement from Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary. Austin continues to have an “excellent prognosis” following his treatment for prostate cancer.

The procedure, described as minimally invasive and non-surgical began at 6 p.m. and lasted until about 8:30 p.m., according to Ryder. Austin resumed his duties, returned home and is expected to take part in Memorial Day events.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lloyd Austin transfers powers to deputy for medical procedure