By: Mauricio Melinu, Dara Bramson, Javier CorreosoSenator Tim Johnson (D-SD) returned to the Senate following a nine month leave of absence due to a life threatening brain hemorrhage.
His return was a relief to the Democratic majority in the senate, which would have lost control, had Johnson not been able to return.
Johnson spent four months recovering in the hospital and additionally underwent nine months of rehabilitation.
"On a human level, everybody hopes and prays for Johnson’s recovery," wrote Eleanor Clift of Newsweek. "But this is Washington, and with the Senate poised to do real damage to Bush and his war party, not everybody’s prayers will be answered."
Fellow Senator John Thune (R-SD) gave a lengthy, heartfelt speech welcoming Johnson’s return to Capitol Hill, followed by words from Senator Johnson speaking from his wheelchair.
“It must already be clear to you that my speech is not 100 percent,” said Johnson. “But my thoughts are clear and my mind is sharp and I’m here to be a voice for South Dakota in the Senate.”
According to Eleanor Clift of Newsweek, Johnson was the only member of Congress with a child in the military. His son served in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Pictures of Johnson's Return, courtesy of his office:
http://johnson.senate.gov/record.cfm?id=281772
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