Senate challenger Jason Lewis undergoes successful emergency surgery

Rebecca Omastiak
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Jason Lewis addresses supporters in Stillwater, Minn., on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2020, at a get out the vote rally on the banks of the St. Croix River. Lewis, a one-term former congressman and former talk radio host, is challenging Democratic U.S. Sen. Tina Smith.[AP Photo/Steve Karnowski]

Republican candidate for U.S. Senate Jason Lewis underwent emergency surgery Monday morning after experiencing abdominal pain.

According to an examination conducted, Lewis was diagnosed with a "severe internal hernia."

His campaign manager issued the following statement Monday:

Early this morning, Congressman Lewis was rushed to the emergency room with severe abdominal pain. Following tests and examination, doctors determined that he is suffering from a severe internal hernia, a diagnosis which they indicated is life-threatening if not treated quickly. As such, Congressman Lewis was rushed into emergency surgery which he is now undergoing.

Prior to being taken to the operating room, Jason was in good spirits, optimistic, and true to form, he was speculating about when he could resume campaigning, eager to continue fighting for his fellow Minnesotans.

Please join me in praying for a successful surgery and a quick and speedy recovery for Jason. Our campaign will release more information as it becomes available.

Later Monday, the campaign spokesman released the following update:

"I am very pleased to report that according to Congressman Lewis’ doctor, his emergency surgery this morning to treat an internal hernia was successful and minimally invasive. Provided that his recovery continues on a positive trajectory, doctors anticipate that he is likely to be released from the hospital in the next couple of days. On behalf of Jason and his wife Leigh, thank you for all the prayers and well wishes that have poured in from across the nation, and let me assure you that nothing will keep Jason Lewis sidelined in his fight to protect Minnesotans from the radical left’s assault on our police officers, economy and our Minnesota way of life."

KSTP’s Tom Hauser confirmed with Lewis’ campaign that an event with Donald Trump, Jr., will go on as planned Tuesday, but without Lewis in attendance.

Lewis’ opponent, Sen. Tina Smith, wished him well Monday morning after hearing the news of his surgery.

Republican Party of Minnesota Chairwoman Jennifer Carnahan released the following statement:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Jason Lewis and his family as he undergoes surgery today and we wish him a speedy recovery.

"Jason is the biggest fighter we know. He cares so much about Minnesota and has worked hard this entire campaign cycle. We look forward to seeing Jason again on the campaign trail soon and will work on his behalf until he returns."

Stay with 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS and KSTP.com for updates.

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