South Carolina GOP Congressman Joe Wilson Hospitalized After DC Event Collapse
Event Details
South Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson (R-Springdale), 77, experienced a health scare when he showed “stroke-like symptoms” and collapsed during an event in Washington DC. He was swiftly hospitalized for better medical examination and care.
Family Disclosure
His son, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, confirmed the incident. He disclosed, “I just spoke to my mom who is currently in the hospital with my father. Doctors have confirmed to us that he has experienced stroke-like symptoms.” Thankfully, the elder Wilson is currently in a stable condition and in the dedicated care of medical professionals.
Outpouring Support
News about Wilson’s health stirred well-wishing messages from his colleagues across the aisle. Fellow South Carolina Republican representatives, Senator Tim Scott and Rep. Nancy Mace, expressed their prayers and hope for Wilson’s speedy recovery.
Before the Incident
Before the incident, the Congressman had been actively participating in the day’s legislative activities. Just earlier that afternoon, he had taken part in two rounds of votes on the House floor, shared some light moments with reporters, and seemed in high spirits. Ironically, Wilson’s illness strikingly coincided with Congress reconvening after its month-long summer vacation.
Official Duties
Besides being an active participant in the House proceedings, Wilson chairs the influential House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia. He had just returned from official visits to the Philippines, Australia, Europe, and had met NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, before kicking off his re-election campaign against Democrat David Robinson II in his home state.
History in the House
The seasoned Congressman has represented the 2nd District of South Carolina since 2001 and has been known for his candor. He famously yelled “you lie!” during then-President Obama’s joint address to Congress when the latter was discussing his health-care plan, dismissing claims about illegal immigrants accessing health coverage. This unparliamentary outburst led to his formal “admonishment” by the House, decrying his behavior as a breach of decorum and discrediting the body.
The Future
As Wilson recovers in the hospital, his constituents, colleagues, and family await his return to full health and active public service. His situation also serves as a reminder of the humanly fallibility that pervades every part of society, including the congressional halls of power.
