* 12:51 pm - Thanks to a commenter for the Tribune link…
U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk, who suffered a stroke in January, plans to return to the Senate floor on Jan. 3, the first day of the new Congress, Rep. Randy Hultgren, R-Ill., said Thursday.
A Senate official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the return date and said it would be marked by a “significant event” with Kirk walking up the Capitol steps to the chamber.
Hultgren said there were plans for a “big party and celebration when he comes back,” and that lawmakers from Illinois may gather in or near the Senate chamber to welcome him.
“I’m just really excited,” he said. “ I’m so grateful for the recovery he’s been able to make.”
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- Geneseo Gent - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 1:15 pm:
He will add some value to that place!
- Just saying - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 1:17 pm:
They need to have the theme from “Rocky” playing as he walks up the steps….
- wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 1:21 pm:
Great news. Best of luck, I’m sure pulling for you.
Sen. Durbin deserves some accolades as well for his support of Sen. Kirk and his staff over the past year. For those who just the other day accused him of being some hyper-partisan demagogue, you don’t know Midwestern values and decency when you see them.
- Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 1:29 pm:
That’s such good news. And, as usual, Wordslinger is exactly right.
- Loop Lady - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 1:38 pm:
Super! Wonderful news! Godspeed!
- stevendmo@yahoo.com - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 2:00 pm:
Glad to hear this. I didn’t vote for Sen. Kirk, but I’m thrilled to hear that he is doing so well and will be back in the Senate chamber. Wishing him the best.
- Wensicia - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 2:05 pm:
Even with the best in medical care, Kirk’s recovery has been remarkable!
- Cindy Lou - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 2:06 pm:
Welcome back, Sen. Kirk!
- LandSnark - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 2:12 pm:
Its good he’s coming back. I’m sure he was in a hurry after seeing the poll today of him losing against Michelle Obama for his seat. #speedrecovery
- OswegoWilly - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 2:20 pm:
Great news!
And kudos to all, from Congress Hultgren to Senator Durbin on the governmental end of this story.
This is an instance it is really easy to say you are proud to be from Illinois. I, like so many from your state, will be applauding your return to the Senate.
- dupage dan - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 2:56 pm:
The Senate has long had a tradition of folks from both sides of the aisle having good relations, word. That doesn’t change what Durbin has done and said in other arenas. I can discern the difference.
- walkinfool - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 2:57 pm:
Best wishes. An especially good example for his fellow veterans who are recovering from brain trauma.
- I just know - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 3:22 pm:
well we thank Durbin we talk about midwest values lets thank God who made this possible
- Bill F - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 3:24 pm:
Good for Kirk and his family and staff. That will be a very special, very emotional moment.
- Crime Fighter - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 3:52 pm:
Good for Kirk.
I did notice on Kirk’s website and e-mails that Hultgren did a yeoman’s job of keeping up the attacks on public workers on Kirk’s behalf.
Good riddance to Hultgren.
- OneMan - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 4:40 pm:
Good riddance to Hultgren…
Ummm Dude, he won another term…
- Crime Fighter - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 5:41 pm:
One Man - I know, read the whole comment dude. Hopefully Hultgren won’t be spewing his misinformation via Kirk’s website.
- amalia - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 6:42 pm:
Yay! Hey Senator, since we know you are reading, that is really great. the Senate needs your moderate approach. and the candy jar!
- palatine - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 7:52 pm:
Very nice to see you back Senator
- happy - Thursday, Dec 6, 12 @ 8:53 pm:
Senator “The Termenator” Kirk is a Rock Star the is gonna move like Jagger.
- Artis Gilmore - Friday, Dec 7, 12 @ 8:41 am:
Well done Senator. God bless.