Sen. Johnson Suffers (Potential) Stroke

Troubling news out of South Dakota-

U.S. Sen. Tim Johnson, Democrat of South Dakota, had an apparent stroke on Wednesday at his office in Washington and has been hospitalized, NBC News reported.

The condition of the 59-year-old Johnson was unknown, the network said.

When the 110th Congress convenes on January 4, there will be 49 Democrats in the Senate, 49 Republicans and two independents. But the two independents will align themselves with the Democrats, giving them majority control of the Senate.

South Dakota's governor, Michael Rounds, who would appoint any successor if there is a vacancy, is a Republican.

For the sake of the Senator and his family, I hope initial reports are just overly concerned.

Talking Points Memo updates that Johnson was conscious when taken to the hospital.

[UPDATE (12/14): Sen. Johnson is in critical condition. He suffered "stroke-like symptoms".]