This story by Moe Clark appeared on Colorado Newsline on August 19, 2021.
Three members of the U.S. Senate tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, including Colorado Sen. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat.
“After experiencing mild symptoms, I tested positive for a breakthrough case of COVID-19,” Hickenlooper said in a written statement. The former governor of Colorado joined the U.S. Senate in November.
“I’m feeling much better and will continue to isolate at the direction of the Congressional Attending Physician,” he added. “I’m grateful for the vaccine (and the scientists behind it) for limiting my symptoms and allowing us to continue our work for Colorado.”
In his statement, he encouraged Coloradans to get the vaccine if they haven’t done so yet. “Get the shot today, and a booster when it’s available too!” he added.
The other members of Congress to test positive on Thursday include Republican Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi and Sen. Angus King of Maine, who is an independent. All three senators have received the COVID-19 vaccine, according to a CNN report.
“Despite all my efforts, when I began feeling mildly feverish yesterday, I took a test this morning at my doctor’s suggestion, and it came back positive,” King said in a written statement. “I am taking this diagnosis very seriously, quarantining myself at home and telling the few people I’ve been in contact with to get tested in order to limit any further spread.”