Tie-breaking Dem. Senator in critical condition
Democratic Senator Tim Johnson of South Dakota is said to be in stable, yet critical condition following an emergency operation to stop bleeding in his brain.
Johnson’s illness could hand Senate control back to Republicans. If Johnson is forced to give up his seat, South Dakota governor Republican Mike Rounds would choose his replacement. If Rounds were to choose a Republican, that would mean a 50-50 tie in the Senate. That would hand control back to Republicans because Vice President Dick Cheney would hold the tie-breaking vote.
democracynow