Sen. Fetterman Hospitalized For ‘Severe’ Depression

Topline

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) admitted himself to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Wednesday night after experiencing “severe” depression, according to an aide, less than a week after he was hospitalized for lightheadedness following a stroke on the campaign trail last year.

Key Facts

Fetterman chief of staff Adam Jentleson said in a statement the senator checked himself into the hospital on the advice of congressional physician Dr. Brian P. Monahan, who examined him Monday.

Fetterman has dealt with bouts of depression throughout his life, and his condition significantly worsened during “recent weeks,” Jentleson said.

The senator spent two nights in a D.C. hospital last week after feeling lightheaded, but a series of tests ruled out seizures or a stroke.

Fetterman is still dealing with health issues from a stroke he suffered in May, which left him with a hearing impairment.

Crucial Quote

“The doctors at Walter Reed told us that John is getting the care he needs, and will soon be back to himself,” Jentleson said.

Key Background

Residual problems from last year’s stroke have markedly impacted Fetterman’s first six weeks as a senator. He has largely kept a low profile, avoiding lawmaking negotiations as he instead focuses on his recovery and being a solid vote for President Joe Biden’s agenda, according to the New York Times. Fetterman’s condition has often left him frustrated, especially since his hearing troubles have prevented him from engaging with reporters in the halls of Congress, the Times reported. The senator now relies on a closed captioning device to understand what others are saying.

Tangent

Fetterman defeated Republican nominee Mehmet Oz by almost four percentage points in November to win Pennsylvania’s open Senate seat, in what was one of the most scrutinized races of the midterm elections. The stroke left Fetterman unable to campaign for several months.

Further Reading

John Fetterman Discharged From Hospital After 2 Days—Will Return To Senate Monday, Office Says (Forbes)

Sen. John Fetterman Hospitalized After Feeling ‘Lightheaded’ Months After Stroke (Forbes)

Pennsylvania Senate Candidate John Fetterman Released From Hospital After Stroke (Forbes)

Pennsylvania Senate Election: Democrat Fetterman Beats Oz To Flip Key Senate Seat (Forbes)