Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman was hospitalized Wednesday after feeling lightheaded at a Senate retreat, according to an official statement from his communications director.
Fetterman, who suffered a “near fatal stroke” while campaigning in 2022, was taken to George Washington University hospital in Washington, D.C., by his staff, where initial tests showed no evidence of a new stroke, communications director Joe Calvello stated, according to The Associated Press. Doctors kept Fetterman overnight for observation and to run a few more tests.
Fetterman appeared to be in good spirits and was talking with staff and family, Cavello reportedly added, promising to release more information “when [they] have it.”
U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, the Pennsylvania Democrat who suffered a stroke during his campaign last year, was hospitalized Wednesday night after feeling lightheaded, his office says. https://t.co/uGAcDRDClk
— ABC News (@ABC) February 9, 2023
During the campaign, Fetterman’s opponent, Dr. Mehmet Oz, questioned the now-Pennsylvania senator’s capacity to serve given that he was still appearing to struggle from the effects of the stroke. Fetterman is reportedly still suffering from a common stroke after-effect known as auditory processing disorder or an inability to speak fluidly and quickly during conversation. The disorder was readily apparent during the one debate held prior to the election, the AP reported. (RELATED: Journalist Claims NBC Reporter Aided ‘GOP Efforts’ By Reporting On Fetterman’s Health)
His performance concerned some voters, many of whom questioned why he was still put forth as a candidate due to his health.
“I felt for him. I felt empathetic for him, and at the same time concerned,” P.J. Dolan, an independent, reportedly said after watching Fetterman debate. “I’m concerned that they even put him out there to be honest with you. I mean, we’re seeing that twice now.”
Fetterman won the Senate seat with 50.2% of the vote.