Sen. John Fetterman (D-Penn.) is receiving treatment for depression.
In a statement on Thursday, Fetterman’s chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, said, “Last night, Senator John Fetterman checked himself into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to receive treatment for clinical depression.”
“While John has experienced depression off and on throughout his life, it only became severe in recent weeks,” he continued.
Jentleson explained the attending physician of Congress recommended inpatient care for Fetterman.
“After examining John, the doctors at Walter Reed told us that John is getting the care he needs, and will soon be back to himself,” the statement added.
Check out the statement below:
The news Fetterman is receiving treatment for depression comes a week after he was hospitalized overnight.
On Feb. 8, his 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.
In October, Fetterman’s campaign released a letter from his physician, 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.
