From Washington Examiner: Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN) will be hospitalized overnight for observation at George Washington University Hospital after she became unwell while working at the Capitol.
Smith, 67, has no known health problems other than a history of depression. Her absence from the Senate on Wednesday will give Republicans a temporary seven-vote advantage as Congress considers changes to the $9 billion rescissions bill.
“While at work at the Capitol today, Sen. Smith started to not feel well,” Smith’s staff posted in a note on X. “She went to the Capitol physician, who recommended she undergo more thorough examination at GW hospital. Out of an abundance of caution, they are keeping her overnight for observation. She expects to be back at work very soon.”
Smith’s absence makes it less likely Republicans will need Vice President JD Vance to break a tie. He’s scheduled to return to Washington, D.C., after his trip to Pennsylvania.
Smith announced in February that she is not seeking reelection in 2026.
“This decision is not political, it’s entirely personal, but it’s not lost on me that our country is in need of strong progressive leadership right now, maybe more than ever,” Smith said at the time.
Her term expires in January 2027.
A Note from Senator Smith’s Staff:
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While at work at the Capitol today, Sen. Smith started to not feel well. She went to the Capitol physician who recommended she undergo more thorough examination at GW hospital.Out of an abundance of caution, they are keeping her overnight…
— Tina Smith (@SenTinaSmith) July 16, 2025
The Senate passed Trump’s request to rescind $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcasting funding early Thursday, in a 51-48 vote and sending it back to the House ahead of a Friday deadline.
Democratic Sen Tina Smith of Minnesota was hospitalized and missed the vote. pic.twitter.com/8ezYvW75UT
— Armstrong Williams 🇺🇸 (@Arightside) July 17, 2025
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