Alabama’s Governor, Kay Ivey, found herself in the hospital on Tuesday following a minor medical procedure aimed at alleviating pressure on her lung caused by fluid buildup. This information comes directly from her office, which provided assurance of her condition while under medical care.
At 81, the Republican leader is currently under observation at Montgomery’s Baptist Medical Center South. Her spokesperson, Gina Maiola, emphasized that her hospitalization is primarily a precautionary measure, ensuring the governor’s health is closely monitored over the next few days.
The discovery of the fluid was prompted by Ivey’s visit to her physician, driven by discomfort on her left side and recent bouts of shortness of breath. Although the situation was not urgent, Governor Ivey prioritized undergoing the procedure promptly to swiftly return to full health.
Maiola noted, “Governor Ivey wanted to get the procedure done as soon as possible so she can quickly get back to 100% to wrap up the 2026 Regular Session.” This legislative session is nearing its conclusion, and Ivey’s commitment to her duties remains steadfast.
While the exact duration of Governor Ivey’s hospital stay and recovery period remains unspecified, the focus remains on her swift and complete recuperation.
Her office did not specify how long the governor will be in the hospital or recovering.
“We are in touch with Governor Ivey, and she says she is determined to make a very speedy and full recovery,” Maiola said.
Ivey announced in 2019 that she was undergoing radiation for lung cancer.
The governor described it as a small localized spot.
Her office said in 2020 that scans indicated the treatment was successful and she was free of disease.
