US Senator Mark Kirk on Thursday made an emotional return to work one year after suffering a debilitating stroke, earning cheers from colleagues who lined the Capitol steps to welcome him back.
Vice President Joe Biden greeted the 53-year-old Illinois lawmaker with a hearty “welcome back, man!” and a hug as he arrived.
Dozens of colleagues cheered and applauded as Kirk, a Republican, slowly ascended the steep Capitol steps, with the help of a cane. At one point, Biden and Senator Joe Manchin helped steady him for the climb.
Top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell commended Kirk’s tenacity and dedication as he welcomed him back to the chamber following months of intensive rehabilitation therapy.
“His staff counted 45 steps from the parking lot to the front door of the Senate, and during his treatment, he made walking those steps his goal,” McConnell said.
“Today, he did it. So we admire him for his spirit, and we applaud his achievement. It’s wonderful to have him back, ready to work.”
Kirk took over President Barack Obama’s old Senate seat after a victory in the November 2010 mid-term election.
He replaced Democratic Senator Roland Burris, who had served out the remainder of Obama’s term.
A former member of the House of Representatives and an intelligence officer in the US Naval Reserve, Kirk has been a voice for confronting Iran over its suspect nuclear program and for robust engagement with China.
His achievements as senator include co-authoring a bill aimed at cutting off Iran’s central bank from the world financial system.
Kirk makes emotional US Senate return after stroke
