Alabama Gov. Ivey Hospitalized After Lung Fluid Procedure

MONTGOMERY, Ala. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey was hospitalized Tuesday following a minor procedure to remove fluid pressing on her lung, her office announced.

The 81-year-old Republican governor underwent the procedure at Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery after experiencing discomfort in her left side and recent shortness of breath. The issue came to light during a visit to her doctor, and while it was not considered an emergency, Ivey opted to address it promptly. She will remain under observation at the facility for several days as a precautionary measure, though her office provided no details on the expected duration of her hospital stay or recovery period.

Ivey's spokeswoman, Gina Maiola, issued a statement emphasizing the governor's resolve to return to full duties. "While it was not emergent, Governor Ivey wanted to get the procedure done as soon as possible so she can quickly get back to 100 percent to wrap up the 2026 Regular Session," Maiola said. The legislative session is entering its final days, with key business still pending. Maiola added that Ivey remains in contact with her team and is focused on recovery. "We are in touch with Governor Ivey, and she says...