November 27, 2007

Rep. Carson Will Not Run Again After Cancer Diagnosis

Rep. Julia Carson, D-Ind., might return to Washington in January despite being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer last week, but the six-term member has ruled out a re-election bid next year, a spokesman said yesterday.

Len Sistek, Carson's chief of staff, said the 69-year-old lawmaker intends to return to work after the first of the year, but said he could not say whether she was considering resigning. "We are trying to stick with the facts and a lot is not known right now," said Sistek, explaining that Carson's staff in Washington learned of her diagnosis from media reports. He confirmed that Carson did "not intend at this point to seek re-election in 2008."

Carson was diagnosed with lung cancer several years ago but believed it was in remission. She said she learned of its recurrence last week while being treated for a leg infection that has kept her on medical leave since September.

Sistek said Carson's short-term plans call for her continued convalescence, although he said she was "clearly recovering" from the leg infection. He did not know Carson's long-term plans but said he would be able to offer more on the subject after meeting with her in Indiana this week. Sistek indicated that the news of Carson's terminal condition shocked staffers because they anticipated that she would be able to resume her duties despite her health problems. She also suffers from diabetes and asthma, and has had open heart surgery.

If Carson leaves the House, Indiana Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels will have to call a special election to fill her seat. A number of candidates from both parties have been preparing campaigns for the seat. See CongressDaily (subscription) for a full list of possible candidates.

-Terry Kivlan, CongressDaily

Posted at 7:57 AM
Posted to: Campaigns, Congress, House
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