Boozman on the mend after heart surgery

Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) “responded well” to emergency heart surgery he had at a hospital in Rogers, Ark., on Tuesday, according to his office.

“Doctors say he responded well to the surgery and are monitoring his recovery,” said Boozman’s press secretary, Patrick Creamer. “Boozman’s family has visited with him and are hopeful for a full recovery.”

{mosads}Boozman, 63, was taken to an emergency room overnight after suffering from pain in his chest and arm. After running tests, doctors admitted Boozman in order to operate.

The senator’s office said more information about his condition will be released when it’s available.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on Tuesday welcomed word of the successful surgery.

“We’re glad to hear that John is doing well and we all look forward to having him back at work,” he said. “He is a fantastic senator and a tireless advocate for Arkansas and the people he so proudly represents.”

Boozman served in the House of Representatives for 10 years before being elected to the Senate in 2010. He has a medical background; prior to being a politician, Boozman was an optometrist.

The Senate has been on a two-week Easter recess and Boozman was making appearances back in his home state. On Tuesday, he was supposed to attend a ribbon-cutting on a new stretch of highway in Arkansas, but was unable to attend because of his medical emergency.

Boozman serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senate Appropriations Committee, Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.

— This story was last updated at 4:00 p.m.