Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa was hospitalized and is being treated for an infection.
The Republican received an antibiotic infusion, according to a statement from his office on Jan. 16.
“He is in good spirits and will return to work as soon as possible following doctors’ order,” the statement said.
“Grassley's absence comes just days before a deadline for a partial government shutdown,” reports ABC 7 NY. “Congressional leaders have agreed to a deal to keep the federal government funded into March, but both parties will need to supply votes to pass the legislation through both chambers before the Friday deadline.”
Grassley is the oldest member of the United States Congress. He assumed this status following the death of the late California Congresswoman Dianne Feinstein. The next oldest member of Congress is California Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, who is currently 87.
Grassley has often emphasized his good health and his dedication to remaining physically fit. The 2021 video announcing his reelection campaign featured clips of the senator on one of the six runs he takes each week.
In more recent years, he has suffered a few health setbacks. Grassley fell and injured his hip in January of 2023 – requiring him to undergo surgery.
Grassley is currently serving his eighth term in office – which ends on Jan. 3, 2029.
“It’s an honor to serve the people of Iowa in the United States Senate. My oversight and policy efforts are intended to ensure safety and stability in our nation and hold our government accountable to the people. Iowans are the foremost inspiration for all my work,” the senator said in December while unveiling his 2023 policy and oversight highlights.
