Reid released from hospital

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) was released from the hospital on Friday after falling ill from exhaustion, his office said.

Reid’s office stressed he was only held in the hospital “as a precaution,” and said the majority leader will be back at work soon.

“The doctors diagnosed him as exhausted, not anything more serious, and have cleared him to go back to work,” Reid’s office said.

“He spent today resting, talking to family, friends and colleagues, reading the news and discussing Senate business. He appreciates the kind words and thoughts sent by so many, thanks the doctors at George Washington University Hospital for the excellent care he received, and wishes everyone a Happy Holidays.”

Earlier Friday, Reid’s office said the 74-year-old senator “was not feeling well” and had gone to the hospital. Spokesman Adam Jentleson said doctors decided to keep Reid in the hospital “for observation,” pulling him away from the final Senate votes of the year.

The majority leader suffered a mild stroke in 2005, leaving him in the hospital and forcing him to cancel some events.

Reid worked late into Thursday night and early Friday morning to broker a deal to hold nomination votes before the Senate adjourned.

Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) reported Reid as cheerful after speaking with him Friday morning. 

“Leader Reid and Sen. Schumer spoke about the appropriations process this morning, and the leader is in good spirits,” an aide to Schumer said.

Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) said on the Senate floor that he would be replacing Reid for the day.

“I spoke with him this morning and he sounded good,” Durbin said. “We look forward to his speedy recovery.”

—This story was first posted at 9:05 a.m. and has been updated.

Alexander Bolton contributed.