Kentucky governor loses gall bladder

LEXINGTON, Ky., Feb. 14 (UPI) -- Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher had his gall bladder removed Tuesday after being admitted to a hospital for gallstones.

The governor's surgeon, Dr. Joseph Fine, reported that shortly after the surgery Fletcher was in the recovery room and trying to talk to medical staff at St. Joseph East Hospital, the Louisville Courier-Journal reported.

"He'll be up and walking today," Fine said. "We are going to keep him in the hospital at least overnight because he had pancreatitis and make sure he is doing OK from that standpoint."

Fletcher was admitted Sunday with abdominal pains. He temporarily transferred the power of his office to Lt. Gov. Steve Pence.