Kelly Magsamen, chief of staff to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, will step down at the end of June, months after facing criticism for not informing the White House and Congress about Austin’s emergency hospitalization last winter.
Magsamen’s departure occurs amidst ongoing scrutiny over the handling of Austin’s medical crisis and subsequent political fallout.
According to The Washington Post, Kelly Magsamen has announced her resignation as chief of staff to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, effective at the end of June. Magsamen has held this critical role for over three and a half years, overseeing significant events such as the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and Israel’s war in Gaza. Her departure comes in the wake of intense scrutiny and criticism over the handling of Austin’s hospitalization.
Austin described her as “the chief architect of every initiative I have launched.” Despite this endorsement, no specific reason has been given for her departure. Caroline Zier, currently the deputy chief of staff, will replace Magsamen on an acting basis.
During her time with Austin, Magsamen faced challenges and successes. One of the most notable controversies was her role in the delayed notification of Austin’s emergency hospitalization for prostate cancer. Initially, the Pentagon claimed Magsamen was unaware of Austin’s diagnosis and surgery, but it was later revealed that she and other officials waited until January 2 to notify appropriate parties after learning about complications.
Adding to the complexity, Magsamen was reportedly sick with the flu during this period, complicating communication further. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks was vacationing in Puerto Rico and took over Austin’s duties without being informed of his condition.
The Defense Department’s independent inspector general opened an investigation into the matter in January, and a report is expected later this year. Despite the investigation, a Pentagon spokeswoman stated that Magsamen’s departure is unrelated to the inspector general’s findings.
Austin’s hospitalization and the subsequent secrecy surrounding his medical condition led to bipartisan criticism in Congress. Austin was hospitalized for prostate cancer surgery in December and was in critical condition in January. Democrats criticized Austin’s judgment, while House Republicans summoned him for a hearing in February.
In a public apology, Austin admitted his mistake in not informing the president and the public about his condition:
I want to be crystal clear: We did not handle this right. I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis. I should have also told my team and the American public, and I take full responsibility. I apologize to my teammates and the American people.
Magsamen’s resignation also comes amidst ongoing political tensions. She publicly criticized Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s hold on military promotions over Austin's travel reimbursement policy for out-of-state reproductive care for military women. Magsamen’s criticisms reflect broader frustrations within the Pentagon regarding partisan actions affecting military operations.
Magsamen’s career has spanned several administrations. She served in senior roles under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama and in the State Department from 2005 to 2008. Her experience and leadership have been significant assets to the Pentagon, and her departure marks the end of an era of substantial involvement in key defense initiatives.
As the Pentagon moves forward, the leadership transition will be closely watched. Caroline Zier’s temporary appointment as chief of staff is seen as a stabilizing move, but long-term leadership decisions will be critical in maintaining the momentum of the initiatives Magsamen helped launch.
In conclusion, Kelly Magsamen’s departure from her role as chief of staff to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin highlights significant issues within the Pentagon’s communication and transparency. Her tenure, marked by major defense initiatives and notable controversies, leaves a complex legacy. As the Defense Department navigates this transition, the upcoming report from the inspector general and the political dynamics will be crucial in shaping its future leadership and policies.
