Murphy Watched Son Play Hockey Before Stroke at Johns Hopkins
The 53-year-old Democrat is awake and alert at Johns Hopkins Hospital after suffering symptoms during his son's hockey game on Saturday.
By Madison Morris ·
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy is currently being treated at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore following a stroke. His office confirmed on Sunday afternoon that the 53-year-old Connecticut Democrat is awake and alert.
Murphy was initially transported to a local hospital before being moved to the Baltimore facility for further monitoring. His staff reported that he is responding well to medical treatment.
The incident began on Saturday afternoon when Murphy felt numbness in his arm. He was present at the event to watch his son play hockey. His chief of staff, Allison Herwitt, said doctors are encouraged by his progress. She added in a statement that the team is optimistic about a full recovery.
Murphy has been active in the midterm election cycle, campaigning for Democratic candidates in Connecticut and swing states over the past several weeks. He was scheduled to be in New Hampshire on Sunday to support U.S. Representative Chris Pappas, who is running for the Senate. On Friday, he was canvassing in Connecticut in support of Governor Ned Lamont, who is seeking re-election.
Lamont issued a statement on Sunday afternoon calling Murphy a strong advocate for democracy. He expressed confidence that Murphy would return to campaigning in the state soon. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Murphy's colleague in the Senate, also commented on the situation. He described Murphy as a great friend and colleague and said he expects to welcome him back to the Senate in the near future.
Murphy's health situation joins a list of recent medical challenges faced by members of Congress. Senators Ben Ray Lujan and Chris Van Hollen both suffered strokes in 2022 and have recovered. Senator John Fetterman also had a stroke in 2022 while campaigning. He now uses adaptive technology in the Senate to assist with communication. Fetterman posted on social media on Sunday to support Murphy's family. Senator Mitch McConnell, 84, returned to the Senate in September after a three-month absence due to a fall at his home in June.
Murphy was first elected to the Senate in 2012. Prior to that, he represented Connecticut's 5th Congressional District. He also served in the Connecticut Senate and the Connecticut House of Representatives before entering federal office.
Source: Connecticut Public Television
