Congressman in coma after cardiac crisis

US Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr.’s office issued a statement on April 17, 2024 that revealed the Congressman has been hospitalized. 

“Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. suffered a cardiac episode based on complications from his diabetes last week.  Today, he is in stable condition at a local hospital and continues to be under doctor’s care.  While we hope for a full recovery, we ask everyone to keep him in your prayers.”

Published reports say Payne remains unconscious and has been on a ventilator in an intensive care unit at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center since he suffered a heart attack on April 6. 

Payne’s office did not indicate how long he will be in the hospital but it clearly has been withholding information about the lawmaker’s condition. 

“The 65-year-old congressman has not regained consciousness since the heart attack.  His prognosis is uncertain, and his potential return to Washington is unclear,” said an entry on a political news blog.

“Payne’s friends are hopeful that he will overcome his current challenges, as he has in the past,” said the blog entry. “Payne has battled a series of health issues in recent years, including diabetes and kidney issues that require regular dialysis.”

Payne, 65, has served in Congress since 2012 representing New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District, which covers parts of Essex, Hudson and Union counties.

The lawmaker was president of the Newark City Council and an Essex County Freeholder before voters sent him to Washington to replace his father, Rep. Donald M. Payne Sr. – the first Black congressman in New Jersey history – who died of cancer in 2012.

The update came more than a week after his office initially said he had a “good prognosis” and was expected to make a full recovery after he underwent routine exams to monitor his health.  

“He was admitted to a local hospital for treatment,” his office said earlier this month. “Currently, he is recovering in the hospital as doctors conduct routine exams to monitor and observe his improvement.”

Payne is running unopposed in the June 4 Democratic primary.  

Payne’s hospitalization comes as Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson hopes to move a foreign aid package through the lower chamber in the coming days. 

Payne’s absence along with Rep. Mike Gallagher’s departure from Congress Friday will leave the House GOP with 217 members while Democrats have 212.