Defense Secretary Austin apologizes for concealing cancer, says made a 'mistake'

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Thursday, in his first public remarks following his cancer diagnosis and treatment,  apologized for his lack of transparency and communication regarding the matter. 

"I admit that was a mistake," Austin said at Pentagon press conference about not informing President Biden about his hospitalization last month until days later. 

"I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis," he continued. "I should have also told my team and the American public, and I take full responsibility. I apologize to my teammates and to the American people." 

Austin also said he did not direct staff to conceal his hospitalization. 

Austin was diagnose with prostrate cancer in early-December 2023 and underwent a related procedure Dec. 22.

He was hospitalized Jan. 1 as a result of complications, and he did not inform Biden of his status for several days. He remained in the hospital for about two weeks following complications from prostate cancer surgery.

Austin on Thursday also said he has not intentions of resigning over the matter and that he has some problems with one of his legs as a result of the hospital procedures and as a result is using a golf cart to get around. He said he and his doctors expect the matter to improve.  

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