A newly minted Democratic senator was hospitalized overnight after feeling lightheaded.
In a statement, Sen. John Fetterman’s (D-Pa.) communications director, Joe Calvello, said, “Towards the end of the Senate Democratic retreat today, Senator John Fetterman began feeling lightheaded.”
“He left and called his staff, who picked him up and drove him to The George Washington University Hospital. Initial tests did not show evidence of a new stroke, but doctors are running more tests and John is remaining overnight for observation,” it continued.
Finally, the statement added, “He is in good spirits and talking with his family.”
Freshman Sen. John Fetterman, who suffered a stroke last year, was admitted to hospital tonight. “Initial tests did not show evidence of a new stroke, but doctors are running more tests and John is remaining overnight for observation.” pic.twitter.com/yJzYFy0VpP
— Manu Raju (@mkraju) February 9, 2023
Fetterman was sworn in for his first term as senator last month.
He flipped Pennsylvania’s crucial Senate seat, which contributed to Democrats expanding their majority in the chamber by one.
During the campaign, Fetterman suffered a stroke which left him sidelined for three months.
When he returned to the campaign trail, Fetterman said he was “grateful” to be alive.
“Three months ago, I might not have made it,” he said in August when he spoke about the severity of his stroke.
In October, Fetterman’s campaign released a letter from Dr. Clifford Chen which stated, “Overall, the Lt. Governor is recovering well from his stroke and his health has continued to improve.”
He noted the then-Senate candidate “continues to exhibit symptoms of an auditory processing disorder which can come across as a hearing difficulty.”
However, Chen said Fetterman’s communication had shown signs of improvement.
“He has no work restrictions and can work full duty in public office,” Chen added.
In the campaign’s final stretch, questions about Fetterman’s health became a major issue.
