House Minority Leader Jeffries Says Austin Shouldn’t Resign Over Hospital Flap

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., said he supports Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin remaining in office amid controversy from his secret hospitalization.

"From my standpoint we need far more information before I can make any detailed comment on the appropriate comment on the ways forward," said Jeffries said at a press conference Thursday. "But I do not believe Secretary Austin should resign."

Austin shocked the political world when it was announced Friday that he had been in the hospital for the last four days and had not notified the White House or Congress for most of that time even as one of Austin's deputies assumed some of his duties.

It was later revealed that Austin underwent prostate surgery a little over a week prior, and returned to the hospital as complications arose from the procedure.

Austin apologized for the lack of communication and said that he was "commit[ed] to doing better."

The secrecy around Austin's incapacity prompted widespread criticism, sparking calls for an investigation. Some members of Congress even called for his impeachment, his resignation or his firing.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Secretary Austin, he's a great patriot, a good man, he has served his country for decades," said Jeffries Thursday.