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Congressman Cory Mills (FL-07) Formally Calls for Defense Secretary Austin’s Resignation

January 18, 2024

Washington, D.C. – January 12th, Congressman Cory Mills (R-FL), along with fellow House Republicans, including Reps. Jeff Duncan (R-SC), Matt Rosendale (R-MT), and Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) demanded the resignation of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. This call follows Austin's failure to disclose his hospitalization, causing disruption within the Department of Defense.

In a joint letter addressed to Secretary Austin on Friday, Congressman Mills expressed serious concerns about the lack of communication regarding Austin's hospitalization. The letter emphasized the breach of national security resulting from the failure to notify the White House, Congress, subordinates, and the American people.

"I write today with grave concern regarding your failure to communicate your recent incapacitation to the White House, Congress, your subordinates, and the American people," the letter read. "Considering these failures, I ask for your immediate resignation from your role as Secretary of Defense."

"While I wish Secretary Lloyd Austin a speedy recovery, his decision to not notify President Biden and NSA Sullivan, among others, is a huge national security breach and he may have violated U.S. Code by not disclosing his temporary vacancy."

Congressman Mills recognizes the danger posed by this lack of communication. "Given increased threats and attacks on troops abroad, I am demanding his immediate resignation," Mills stated, noting that Austin has demonstrated a dereliction of duty more than once.

This call for resignation follows Congressman Mills' introduction of articles of impeachment against Austin in August 2023, citing the "botched and shameful handling of the Biden administration’s withdrawal in Afghanistan." Mills understands the importance of openness and responsibility, stating, "Americans deserve transparency and accountability, and that’s what we intend to provide."

Read the letter here.

 

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