Concerns Over Secretary of Defense’s Absence
Austin, the Secretary of Defense, has been absent from work since January 1st, raising eyebrows and causing frustration among American workers. Many individuals believe that failing to inform employers about a three-day absence is unacceptable, regardless of the position held.
Cori, a resident of Washington D.C., expressed her dissatisfaction, stating, “You miss three days and you don’t tell anyone, I mean, that’s just rude. Any employee, even your employer, if they didn’t show up or open the doors or whatnot, no matter what you do, being absent for three days is ridiculous.”
However, not everyone placed blame on the secretary. Abu doubted Austin’s responsibility, suggesting that if he was sick, someone else must have mishandled the situation. Therefore, Abu believed Austin should not resign.
The Department of Defense declined to comment directly but referred Fox News to recent press releases. One statement read, “At all times, the Deputy Secretary of Defense was prepared to act for and exercise the powers of the Secretary, if required.”
Health Issues and Lack of Communication
Austin’s prolonged absence stemmed from his hospitalization since January 1st, including a period spent in the intensive care unit. The Walter Reed National Military Medical Center announced that Austin underwent a prostatectomy on December 22nd after experiencing health issues earlier in the month.
Austin’s failure to notify President Biden about his condition in a timely manner sparked criticism from Joe, another D.C. resident. Joe emphasized the significance of Austin’s role and stated, “The average employee is not that crucial to an organization. But Austin is.”
Furthermore, Jacqueline, considering the scenario from an employer’s perspective, asserted that an employee who fails to notify her before an absence would face suspension or potentially termination.
The lack of transparency concerning Austin’s health disclosure prompted numerous inquiries and demands for clarification. House Democrats joined in expressing their disappointment, questioning the secretary’s transparency.
While some individuals, like Miles, urged caution and the need for further investigation, others echoed the sentiment of the President. Biden acknowledged that Austin’s failure to inform him sooner was a lapse in judgment.
A man interviewed on the matter expressed his own perspective, stating that if one of his employees took a three-day absence without notifying their superior, he would consider firing them. He acknowledged the seriousness of Austin’s health condition but emphasized the importance of communication in the workplace.
To watch the full interviews with Americans in D.C., click here.