According to the Washington Examiner, Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), the second-oldest member of the House of Representatives, has been hospitalized again after a recent discharge.
Pascrell initially checked himself into the hospital on July 14 for a respiratory infection and was discharged to a rehabilitation facility on August 8, only to return to the hospital shortly. His condition had previously required "breathing assistance," though doctors remained hopeful for his full recovery.
The 87-year-old lawmaker's health has triggered dialogs concerning his ability to seek reelection and efficiently perform legislative duties.
This readmission marks a worrisome continuation of health problems for Pascrell, who was first admitted due to a high fever and respiratory concerns. His initial hospital stay lasted 24 days, culminating in a challenging recovery that necessitated advanced care.
The congressman's health situation led to his absence from a week of votes at a crucial time in the legislative calendar. His office released a statement during his first hospital stay noting the serious nature of his condition.
Later in the month, his team reported that Pascrell experienced a setback and needed help with breathing, though his doctors were optimistic about a full recovery.
With the legislature on recess since July 25, Pascrell’s physical presence in Congress was less critical; however, his participation in the upcoming Democratic National Convention, starting August 19 in Chicago, will be missed.
Pascrell's tenure in Congress may be at risk due to his health. He has until August 27 to decide if he will continue his reelection campaign.
In the recent 2024 primary, Pascrell overcame Prospect Park Mayor Mohamed Khairullah, suggesting strong local support despite his health challenges.
His consistent victory over Republican contender Billy Prempeh in past elections has secured his position thus far. Having defeated Prempeh by a significant margin in both the 2020 and 2022 elections, Pascrell remains a formidable candidate in his district.
Should Pascrell be reelected, he would become the oldest member of the House and the second-oldest in the entire Congress. His ongoing health issues underscore the rigor required to serve effectively, sparking further conversation about age and capability in high political office.
Rep. Bill Pascrell's recent rehospitalization after a struggle with a respiratory infection catalyzes broader issues regarding his future in Congress. His departure from the hospital, brief stay at a rehabilitation facility, and subsequent readmission paint a complex picture of a dedicated public servant facing serious health hurdles.
With the Democratic National Convention approaching without his presence and a reelection campaign hanging in the balance, the coming weeks are critical for Pascrell’s career and his contributions to legislative work.
