richard? thank you. an update. in the last hour, secretary of defense but also releasing a statement about his hospitalization this week. austin saying he understands the concerns about transparency is running his elective procedure and the subsequent forest days in the icu at walter reed medical center. a u.s. official confirms to nbc, the pentagon did not overrule the president or senior officials at the nsc for four days. austin pledged to, quote, do better in the future. the pentagon has often resumed his duties for the evening. he remained hospitalized saturday. and a strong winter storm burlington on the northeast. new england and mid-atlanta expect around a foot of snow. other parts could see high winds and freezing rain. officials warned residents to stay upright and prepare for possible power outages. more american voices right after this break.