In a recent social media post, former President Donald Trump called for the immediate termination of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, labeling him a “Failed Secretary of Defense” and accusing him of engaging in improper professional conduct and dereliction of duty. Trump emphasized Austin’s one-week absence, asserting that even President Joe Biden, whom he referred to as “Crooked Joe Biden,” was unaware of Austin’s whereabouts.
Trump criticized Austin’s overall performance, stating that he had performed poorly and should have been dismissed long ago. Additionally, Trump took aim at General Mark Milley, using quotation marks around the title of “General,” and called for his removal as well. Trump attributed this call for dismissal to various reasons, citing the disastrous surrender in Afghanistan as a prominent example. He characterized the Afghanistan withdrawal as “perhaps the most embarrassing moment in the history of our Country.”
Failed Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin should be fired immediately for improper professional conduct and dereliction of duty. He has been missing for one week, and nobody, including his boss, Crooked Joe Biden, had a clue as to where he was, or might be. He has performed…
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) January 8, 2024
According to the Washington Post, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, 70, has been moved out of intensive care at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after undisclosed complications from a medical procedure on December 22 led to his emergency hospitalization on January 1. The lack of transparency surrounding Austin’s health crisis and the delayed disclosure of the situation by his senior staff have fueled criticism and calls for accountability from both Democrats and Republicans.
While the Pentagon has assured that Austin’s prognosis is good and that he is recovering well, questions remain about the handling of the incident. The White House and the Pentagon have pledged to review the lapses in communication that contributed to the controversy. Some officials have expressed frustration, describing the incident as showing “unbelievably bad judgment” on Austin’s part.
The incident has also raised concerns about the potential impact on national security, considering the United States’ involvement in conflicts and the recent increase in attacks on U.S. forces in the Middle East. The lack of clarity regarding Austin’s condition and the timeline of events has prompted calls for more transparency and accountability in the handling of information related to the defense secretary’s health.
