Republican Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina was hospitalized on Tuesday after experiencing a medical emergency during an event in Washington, D.C, according to Politico. The incident occurred while Wilson was attending a celebration of Ukrainian independence a source familiar with the situation told the outlet.
Wilson was treated on the scene by a doctor who was present among the attendees.
Following the incident, Wilson’s office released a brief statement on Twitter, confirming that the congressman had “taken ill and is being evaluated at a local hospital in Washington, DC.”
Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) was taken ill and is being evaluated at a local hospital in Washington, DC.
— Joe Wilson (@RepJoeWilson) September 11, 2024
The statement did not provide further details on Wilson’s condition, leaving questions about his health status unanswered as the situation continues to develop.
The congressman’s son, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, said in a statement on social media site X that his father experienced “stroke-like symptoms” after speaking with his mother, Politico noted.
“I was able to speak with him moments ago and I am incredibly thankful that he is stable and being monitored by medical professionals,” Alan Wilson wrote.
Wilson’s office said in a brief statement on the social media site X that the congressman had “taken ill and is being evaluated at a local hospital in Washington, DC” without elaborating further on his condition.
Additional information was not available about his status.
A longstanding member of the House of Representatives, Wilson serves as co-chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. He has been a prominent Republican voice in support of Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, a stance that distinguishes him from some of his party colleagues.
Wilson is also a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and has maintained a significant presence in Congress for over two decades. He is perhaps best known for his outburst during a 2009 address by President Barack Obama to Congress, when he shouted “you lie!” in response to Obama’s remarks on healthcare.
