Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman has reportedly tested positive for COVID-19. Coleman believes that she may have been exposed to the virus as she was locked in a room with other lawmakers during the Capitol Hill riots that took place on January 6.
“On Wednesday, January 6, many members of the House community were in protective isolation in a room located in a large committee hearing space,” physician Brian Monahan said.
“The time in this room was several hours for some and briefer for others. During this time, individuals may have been exposed to another occupant with coronavirus infection.”
Thus far, the longtime congresswoman has tested positive during a rapid antigen test. She is no waiting for the results of a second PCR test. Making matters worse, Coleman is a 75-year-old cancer survivor, which puts her at a higher risk of suffering from the virus. The most recent update from Coleman indicates that she is only suffering cold-like symptoms at this time.
“I received a positive test result for COVID-19, and am home resting at this time. While I am experiencing mild, cold-like symptoms, I remain in good spirits and will continue to work on behalf of my constituents,” the New Jersey Democrat said.
Coleman's positive test comes along with video of three Republican lawmakers refusing to wear masks while in an isolation room during the riots. As a result of Wednesday's events, Monahan has recommended that all members of Congress be tested for the virus.
“While I was disappointed in my colleagues who refused to wear a mask, I was encouraged by those who did,” Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester said.
“My goal, in the midst of what I feared was a super spread event, was to make the room at least a little safer.”
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