The Democratic senator from South Dakota was taken to George Washington University Hospital Wednesday night after suffering stroke-like symptoms. His spokeswoman said he had not suffered a stroke or a heart attack.
If Johnson is unable to complete his term, the balance of power in the U.S. Senate could shift back to the Republicans, just weeks after Democrats narrowly won control after the November general elections.
Democrats now have a 51-49 majority in the Senate. But if Johnson is unable to serve, South Dakota's Republican governor would appoint a replacement until elections in 2008.
If the Senate is split 50-50, Republican Vice President Dick Cheney casts the tie-breaking vote.
Johnson became disoriented Wednesday during a conference call with reporters. He returned to his office, but still was unwell, and the Capitol Hill physician urged that he be admitted to a hospital for tests.
By VOA News
Posted December 14th, 2006 by Dinka
