HARRISBURG, Pa. — U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) was hospitalized Thursday morning in Pittsburgh after experiencing a fall during an early walk near his Braddock home, his office said.
According to a statement from his team, doctors determined the fall was triggered by a “ventricular fibrillation flare-up”, a serious irregular heart rhythm. The episode caused Fetterman to feel light-headed and hit his face, resulting in minor facial injuries.
“If you thought my face looked bad before, wait until you see it now!” Fetterman quipped in a message posted by his office.
His office said the senator elected to stay in the hospital for routine observation and medication adjustment, noting he is currently stable and receiving care.
Background and health context
Fetterman, 56, has faced several major health challenges in recent years:
- In May 2022, he suffered a stroke caused by a blood clot linked to an earlier diagnosis of atrial fibrillation.
- He also has cardiomyopathy, a condition diagnosed after the stroke that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
- In 2023, he sought inpatient treatment for clinical depression and has spoken openly about his mental-health journey.
What is ventricular fibrillation?
Ventricular fibrillation (V-fib) is a life-threatening heart rhythm abnormality in which the heart’s lower chambers quiver instead of beating effectively, impairing blood flow. Without prompt treatment, V-fib can lead to cardiac arrest and sudden death.
Next steps
Fetterman’s office has not specified how long the senator will remain hospitalized. He said the incident prompted an early-morning walk and opted for medical caution. Doctors are adjusting his medication regimen to better control his heart-rhythm issues.
Gov. Josh Shapiro, Senate colleagues and other officials extended well-wishes following the announcement. Medical experts emphasized the importance of ongoing care and monitoring for patients with Fetterman’s history.
