S.D. Sen. Johnson In Critical Condition

South Dakota Democratic Senator Tim Johnson is in critical condition, recovering from emergency surgery.

Johnson suffered stroke-like symptoms Wednesday. He became disoriented during a conference call with reporters, stuttering in response to a question. A physician came to Johnson's office and decided the Senator should go to the hospital. In a statement, Johnson's office said he had suffered a possible stroke and was "undergoing a comprehensive evaluation by the stroke team."

Our thoughts and prayers are with the senator and his family. We wish Senator Johnson a speedy recovery.

Johnson's illness has serious political implications. The result of the last month's elections left the Democrats in position to control the Senate 51-49 in January. If Senator Johnson had to relinquish his seat, a replacement would be named by South Dakota Republican Governor Mike Rounds.

A Republican appointee would create a 50-50 tie, and allow the GOP to retain Senate control.

According to the Associated Press, there are no special restrictions on such an appointment by the governor and a replacement would not have to be from the same political party.

UPDATE: Senator Johnson's office releases statement

STATEMENT FROM OFFICE OF SENATOR TIM JOHNSON

Washington, DC—The office of Senator Tim Johnson has released the following:

Admiral John Eisold, Attending Physician of the United States Capitol said, "Subsequent to his admission to George Washington University Hospital yesterday, Senator Tim Johnson was found to have had an intracerebral bleed caused by a congenital arteriovenous malformation. He underwent successful surgery to evacuate the blood and stabilize the malformation. The Senator is recovering without complication in the critical care unit at George Washington University Hospital. It is premature to determine whether further surgery will be required or to assess any long term prognosis."

Barbara Johnson, wife of Senator Johnson, said, "The Johnson family is encouraged and optimistic. They are grateful for the prayers and good wishes of friends, supporters and South Dakotans.

"They are especially grateful for the work of the doctors and all medical personnel and GWU hospital."