We have our first member of the Senate to test positive to coronavirus, it’s Rand Paul of Kentucky.
Senator Rand Paul has tested positive for COVID-19. He is feeling fine and is in quarantine. He is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events. He was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person.
— Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 22, 2020
He expects to be back in the Senate after his quarantine period ends and will continue to work for the people of Kentucky at this difficult time. Ten days ago, our D.C. office began operating remotely, hence virtually no staff has had contact with Senator Rand Paul.
— Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 22, 2020
More from the Hill:
Paul is the first senator and third lawmaker overall to announce that they had tested positive. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.) and Rep. Ben McAdams (D-Utah) said last week they had tested positive.
The announcement from the two House members sparked a wave of decisions by their colleagues to self-quarantine. No senators immediately said they will self-quarantine.
Paul is now expected to miss a vote scheduled for Sunday afternoon related to a massive coronavirus package. Senate Republicans also want to take a final vote on the package on Monday.
Terrible news. I wonder also if his injury from that idiotic attack from his neighbor might complicate the issues here. It is very unlikely, but something to consider.
Update: Changed from “first member of Congress” to “first member of Senate.” We regret the error and will have the responsible Mexican flogged at once.