Dec 19 2006
Senator Tim Johnson Conscious But Still Critical
In what has become another chapter in a bizarre election season, the Democratic Senator from South Dakota seems to be on the road to recovery:
Sen. Tim Johnson has been conscious at times since his emergency brain surgery last week, his spokeswoman said Monday. But he is currently being sedated so he can rest.
The South Dakota Democrat has made it through the first 72 hours since the Wednesday evening brain surgery, spokeswoman Julianne Fisher said, a benchmark that doctors consider a good sign for recovery. The senator remains in critical but stable condition, she added.
Brain surgery is interesting, but why is this one catching so many headlines? Because the balance of power in the Senate rests on Johnson’s recovery:
Johnson’s sudden illness, due to a congenital blood vessel defect, has raised questions about the Democratic Party’s one-vote majority in the upcoming Senate session. South Dakota’s Republican governor, Michael Rounds, would appoint a replacement if Johnson’s seat were vacated by his death or resignation.
Talk about pressure to recover. Can you imagine the “get well” cards he is receiving?
- Your country needs you; I need you. I just received my new business cards. – Harry
- Enjoy your quite time. Washington can be such a pressure-cooker. – Bill
- Get well soon please, pretty-please, pretty-please with sugar on top. – Nancy
- At a time like this, a man thinks about spending time with his family. – W.
