Staff Reports
The White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, made it clear that President Joe Biden has unwavering confidence in Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin despite the recent lack of transparency regarding Austin’s health. Austin was admitted to the ICU on January 1 and did not inform Biden of his condition until January 4. When asked if the American people should have confidence in Austin given his lack of transparency, Jean-Pierre emphasized that Austin took responsibility by issuing a statement. In the statement, Austin expressed gratitude for the medical care he received and acknowledged the concerns about transparency, committing to improving in the future.
White House: Joe Biden ‘Continues to Have Complete Confidence’ in Lloyd Austin https://t.co/0gIRf3pJyZ
— Sam Collins (@SamTexan1986) January 9, 2024
Jean-Pierre reiterated that President Biden’s confidence in Secretary Austin remains steadfast. She pointed to Austin’s statement, highlighting his acknowledgment of responsibility and commitment to transparency. Furthermore, she mentioned that Biden and Austin had a positive discussion on Saturday and expressed the administration’s eagerness for Austin’s swift recovery and return to the Pentagon.
The refusal to promptly disclose crucial information about the Defense Secretary’s health and the delayed communication with President Biden raises concerns about transparency and accountability within the administration. Despite these missteps, Jean-Pierre’s affirmation of Biden’s complete confidence in Austin underscores the administration’s commitment to standing by their officials, even in the face of public scrutiny. The ongoing support for Austin from the highest levels of government underscores the value placed on loyalty and allegiance within the Biden administration.
