CNN/AP: Spokeswoman: Senator Johnson shows signs of recovery

Spokeswoman: Johnson shows signs of recovery
December 18, 2006


Senator Tim Johnson (D., SD)

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Tim Johnson has been conscious at times since his emergency brain surgery last week, his spokeswoman said Monday. But he is currently being sedated so he can rest.

The South Dakota Democrat has made it through the first 72 hours since the Wednesday evening brain surgery, spokeswoman Julianne Fisher said, a benchmark that doctors consider a good sign for recovery.

The senator remains in critical but stable condition, she added. (Watch how Johnson fell ill )

Fisher said the next "target" for doctors is to watch his progress over the next week.

The senator showed some signs of recovery late last week, responding to voices, opening his eyes and moving his limbs. But his long-term prognosis is still unclear.

Johnson's sudden illness has raised questions about the Democrats' one-vote majority in the upcoming Senate session. South Dakota's Republican governor, Mike Rounds, would appoint a replacement if Johnson's seat were vacated by his death or resignation.

A Republican appointee would create a 50-50 tie and effectively allow the GOP to retain Senate control because of Vice President Dick Cheney's tie-breaking vote....

http://www.cnn.com/2006/POLITICS/12/18/johnson.ill.ap/index.html

Rounds Won't Speculate On Replacing Johnson

South Dakota Republican governor Mike Rounds would name a replacement if Johnson left office.

However, in remarks Saturday, the Governor said he's not even considering the notion of appointing someone else to the job.

Instead, he called for patience, "We have one of our friends, one of our colleagues who is going through a tough time. When that happens you stand by them. And that's exactly what the people of South Dakota will do."

Rounds told reporters he receives daily updates about Johnson's condition. Yesterday, he spoke with Johnson's wife and got some hopeful news, "I did receive a very encouraging report from Barbara yesterday afternoon. They're very optimistic and Tim is making good progress."

KTIV TV Sioux City IA
Updated: December 16, 2006, 8:45 pm
http://www.ktiv.com/News/index.php?ID=8025

If Johnson RESIGNS or passes away.. he can name a replacement, but he cannot "fire" him..

SD gov needs to STFU

We've learned what the GOP are like.

He can't do one fucking thing about this.

Sit down and shut the fuck up you right-wing disease.

You don't get to be above the law.

Don't even THINK about it.