(Image source from: www.countable.us)

Arizona Democratic Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, announced on Wednesday that she will be taking time off in order to seek treatment for “alcohol dependence.” Kirkpatrick stated that, she suffered a serious fall last week and will be undergoing physical therapy.

Kirkpatrick, 69, said in a statement that her alcoholism was the “underlying cause” of her fall and that she will be seeking rehabilitation and treatment for the same.

“I am finally seeking this help after struggling to do so in the past, and I am ready to admit that, I, like countless other Americans, suffer from this disease,” she stated in a statement.

She also said that, he hard work and determination which helped in bringing success in her life were not enough to win the battle against alcoholism. She added saying that, representing her fellow Arizonians was the most important job according to her other than being a wife, mother and grandmother and that she must get better in doing the best for all the roles.

She said that her offices in Washington and Arizona will be remained open in her absence though it is unclear how the treatment will affect her congressional work.

Kirkpatrick represents a swing district in southeastern Arizona that includes Tucson. She was a member of the Arizona house of Representatives from 2005-2007 and had also been a part of the 1st Congressional district from 2009-2011 and then from 2013-2017.

The Republican Party is trying to flip the district in 2020, with seven Republicans are expected to challenge Kirkpatrick for her second Congressional seat in November.

Representative Greg Stanton, a Democrat representing Maricopa County, in the Phoenix area has extended his support as he tweeted, “ Ann Kirkpatrick is one of the finest public servants I know. She’s been a fighter her whole life, and I’m not surprised to see her make such a brave decision.”

Ann Kirkpatrick is one of the finest public servants I know. She's been a fighter her whole life, and I'm not surprised to see her make such a brave decision. I wish her all the best in her recovery and look forward to working with her on behalf of all Arizonans when she returns.

— Greg Stanton (@RepGregStanton) January 15, 2020

Kirkpatrick added saying that, she beliefs that he decision will help in strengthening her service to the state. She said in a statement that, this important step is being taken as she has expected and desired to work healthier and stronger as she continues to serve Arizona.


-Shrithika Kushangi