Overview
- DeLauro, first elected in 1990 and now 82, was admitted to Griffin Hospital in Connecticut on August 11 for spinal stenosis treatment
- Neurosurgeon Dr. Judith L. Gorelick will perform the operation and describes it as a routine intervention for age-related spinal narrowing
- Following surgery, DeLauro will complete a course of physical therapy in Connecticut before returning to Washington
- Her temporary absence creates uncertainty for leadership continuity on the powerful House Appropriations Committee with Republicans holding a narrow majority
- She remains a candidate for another term despite a primary challenge from Damjan DeNoble, who has questioned her age and urged generational change