Pentagon watchdog to review Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's hospitalization

The Pentagon inspector general announced in a statement it will review "the roles, processes, and actions" related to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's hospitalization, which was kept hidden even from the White House for days. 

The review will examine whether the Defense Department's policies and procedures for notifying when the defense secretary has transferred authorities are appropriate and timely. 

In the past week, Austin and senior leaders at the Pentagon have faced criticism for not disclosing his hospitalization for several days — even to the deputy secretary of defense who took over his duties — including a period of time in the intensive care unit.