Sen. Mike Lee announced Friday he had tested positive for coronavirus and will quarantine for 10 days.
The Utah Republican is an integral member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, which is considering the Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett. Lee was at her announcement on Saturday at the White House and met with Barrett on Tuesday. He also spoke to reporters after his meeting with Barrett and attended committee meetings and party lunches.
Lee said he began experiencing symptoms similar to allergies on Thursday, but sought medical advice and was tested for the virus. He found out he was positive on Thursday.
Senate Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) is scheduled to begin hearings for Barrett on Oct. 12, with Republicans planning a committee vote on the nomination on Oct. 22. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Friday that the confirmation process was moving “full steam ahead” despite the possible coronavirus outbreak in the White House.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Judiciary Committee ranking member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) called for a re-evaluation of that plan in light of Lee’s diagnosis: “Health and safety must guide the schedule for all Senate activities, including hearings.”
Lee, however, said he expected to be able to provide support for Barrett in the committee.
“I have spoken with Leader McConnell and Chairman Graham, and assured them I will be back to work in time to join my Judiciary Committee colleagues in advancing the Supreme Court nomination,” Lee said in a statement.
Lee’s bodyman, an aide who spends the most time in physical proximity to Lee, tested negative, according to his office.
Lee joins Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) in testing positive. Sens. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.) also tested positive for antibodies to the disease.