S. Dakota Senator Says, 'I Am Back' ; Makes First Speech Since Brain Ailment

Aug 29, 03:00 PM

Current Headlines: By CARSON WALKER, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. Sen. Tim Johnson, speaking slowly and slurring some words more than eight months after experiencing a life- threatening brain hemorrhage, announced Tuesday to state residents: "I am back."

In his first public appearance since falling ill, the 60-year- old Democrat spoke for 15 minutes to a cheering crowd at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. As the state's senior senator was brought out in a wheelchair, he waved his left arm to the crowd, then rose to his feet.

Johnson's face and his speech clearly showed the effects of the trauma, but he used his sense of humor to assure supporters he will return to the Senate as early as next week.

"Hard work is something in which I take great pride. So, let me say this tonight going forward: I am back," he said to loud applause.

"Of course, I believe I have an unfair edge over most of my colleagues right now. My mind works faster than my mouth does. Washington would probably be a better place if more people took a moment to think before they spoke."

The senator, who has not officially said he is running for reelection in 2008, hinted he would. "My will to keep fighting for you has never been stronger," he said.

"It was one of the most moving experiences that I can recall," said former Sen. George McGovern, 85.

Bryan Wellman, a neurosurgeon at Sanford Neurosurgery in Sioux Falls, said he watched the speech on television and was impressed with Johnson's progress. "For what he has dealt with, he has done marvelously," said Wellman, who has never treated the senator.

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