S.D.'s Johnson returns to Senate

WASHINGTON, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate welcomed back South Dakota Democrat Tim Johnson Wednesday as he rallies from a life-threatening brain hemorrhage that felled him in December.

“It’s great to be home,” Johnson said as colleagues acknowledged his return with a standing ovation, Congressional Quarterly reported.

The official welcome came when senators adopted a resolution extending “their warmest welcome” and expressing their “personal happiness at his return” and very best wishes for his continued health.”

In response Johnson said, while his speech wasn't 100 percent, "my thoughts are clear. My mind is sharp. And I'm here to be a voice for South Dakota."

Johnson said he plans to ease back into his schedule that includes six committee memberships so he can avoid becoming fatigued as he continues his rehabilitation to regain his mobility affected by the hemorrhage Dec. 13.