OKC Standard

Jan 10 2024

U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), along with Ranking Member Roger Wicker and all Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) Republicans, has raised questions about the failures related to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's incapacitation and transfer of authority. They have expressed concern that these actions are in violation of the law and pose a threat to the continuity of government and national security.

In a letter addressed to Secretary Austin, the Senators have requested an immediate update on the timeline of events following the Secretary's illness. They are also seeking answers to more than 15 specific questions regarding the Department's handling of the situation. The letter also demands information about the role played by Department staff in delaying the transmission of critical information, as well as any previous occurrences of similar transfers of authority without Congressional notification.

"We cannot do this without clear and open communication," the Senators stated in their letter. They emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in order to rebuild trust with Congress and the American people.

The Senators have outlined a list of questions, which include the timeline of the Secretary's incapacitation, the nature of the medical procedure he underwent, and the exact time of his incapacitation. They are also seeking information on who was made aware of his condition and whether any decisions were made on his behalf.

Furthermore, the Senators are seeking clarification on whether the Biden administration believes that the Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998 applies to this case. They are also requesting details on why the notification process outlined in the act was not followed and who made the determination not to follow it.

The letter also raises concerns about the delay in notifying the President, the National Security Adviser, and Congress of the Secretary's incapacitation and delegation of authority. The Senators are seeking information on the justification provided by the Department of Defense for this delay.

Additionally, the Senators are requesting information on whether all aspects of the nuclear enterprise, including access to appropriate communications capabilities, were transferred to the Deputy Secretary of Defense when she assumed the role of acting Secretary of Defense.

The Senators have also asked whether Deputy Secretary Hicks was on vacation in Puerto Rico during this time period and if so, whether she had access to the necessary communications capabilities to fulfill her authorities. They are seeking details on who was with her in Puerto Rico and whether anyone at the White House directed her not to return to Washington, D.C.

The letter concludes with a request for information on any affirmative decisions and recommendations made by Deputy Secretary Hicks as acting Secretary and whether this is the only instance in which she has assumed the authorities of the Secretary of Defense during this administration.

The Senators emphasize that compliance with the Federal Vacancies Reform Act is crucial and that the American people have the final say, through the Senate's consent, over who fills important executive roles.

This letter from Senator Mullin, Senator Wicker, and all SASC Republicans highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the Department of Defense. The Senators are demanding answers to their questions in order to ensure the continuity of government and national security during this critical time.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.mullin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-mullin-sasc-republicans-demand-answers-on-department-of-defense-chain-of-command-crisis/