Democratic Senator Admitted to Hospital: What We Know

Democratic U.S. Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota was admitted to George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday after feeling unwell and being evaluated by a Capitol physician.

Why It Matters

The 67-year-old Minnesota Democrat's hospitalization on Wednesday means she won't be able to help her Senate colleagues as they try to make changes to the Trump administration's rescissions package, which asks Congress to take back more than $9 billion in congressionally-approved funding for government programs.

What To Know

Smith's staff announced her hospitalization in an X post around 5:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday.

"A Note from Senator Smith's Staff: While at work at the Capitol today, Sen. Smith started to not feel well," the post said. "She went to the Capitol physician who recommended she undergo more thorough examination at GW hospital. Out of an abundance of caution, they are keeping her overnight for observation. She expects to be back at work very soon."

It's not clear what Smith's symptoms are or when she'll be back on Capitol Hill. The senator's office told Newsweek it does not have currently have any information to add beyond its initial statement.

There are currently 47 Democratic senators or Independent senators who caucus with Democrats, compared to 53 Republican senators. Smith's hospitalization comes at a crucial time for her party, as it tries to slow the passage of President Donald Trump's rescissions package during another "vote-a-rama," during which both parties can offer an unlimited number of amendments to the proposal.

The Senate started voting on amendments early Wednesday, one day after the upper chamber advanced the rescissions package with a 51-50 vote, with Vice President JD Vance stepping in to break a tie.

Three Republican senators—Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska—broke ranks and sided with Senate Democrats to vote against it.

Trump's proposal calls for $1.1 billion in cuts to public broadcasting like NPR and PBS and another $8.3 billion in cuts to foreign aid.

What People Are Saying

Smith's fellow Senate colleague from Minnesota, Amy Klobuchar, wrote on X: "Know my friend Tina will be back soon! Xox"

Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon responded to the statement from Smith's office on X: "Thinking of you, my friend, and hoping you feel better soon!"

Alana Austin, a correspondent at the right-wing network Newsmax, wrote on X: "Minnesota Democratic Senator Tina Smith is being hospitalized at George Washington University's hospital in DC, per staff. We wish her a speedy recovery."

What Happens Next

Smith's office said she expects to be back on Capitol Hill soon, but the exact timing isn't immediately clear.

Update 7/16/25, 7:54 p.m. ET: This story has been updated with additional information and context.