WASHINGTON − Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minnesota, was hospitalized July 16, her office said in a statement, amid an ongoing debate and anticipated vote in the Senate on President Donald Trump’s $9 billion spending cuts.
“While at work at the Capitol today, Sen. Smith started to not feel well,” her staff said. “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.”
The Minnesota Democrat’s absence likely means one less no vote on a package slashing funds for foreign aid and public broadcasting, currently under consideration in the upper chamber.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune is working with a narrow majority in his efforts to see the legislation across the finish line. It had been expected that he could only lose three Republicans to the opposition, with Vice President JD Vance breaking a 50-50 tie, and still be successful.
Smith’s hospital stay could mean Vance will not be needed after all.
The Senate is holding a marathon series of votes ahead of any final decision on the spending cuts, anticipated late July 16 or early the next morning.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tina Smith hospitalized amid Senate debate on Trump’s spending cuts
