U.S. Representative Virginia Foxx (D-NC) is recovering after experiencing a fall at the U.S. Capitol on Friday, January 3, 2025. The 81-year-old congresswoman slipped on the marble staircase outside the House chamber shortly after participating in the House's first vote of the new Congress, which involved the re-election of Rep. Mike Johnson as Speaker.
According to her office, Foxx had walked up the staircase to speak with her family who were watching from the gallery. While descending, she lost her footing and fell. Initial reports indicated she suffered visible injuries, with medical personnel attending to her shortly after the incident.
Foxx was observed bleeding and appeared to have sustained cuts on her face and leg, causing reporters to express concern. Fortunately, she was able to get up with assistance and proceeded on her own to the attending physician's office for treatment, where she received care for her injuries.
After the incident, Foxx reassured her constituents through social media, stating, "Thank you to everyone for your prayers—just a few small cuts and I’m doing just fine. I’m a mountain woman and we’re tougher than a $2 steak." Her levity about the situation highlighted her resilience and determination.
Despite her fall, Foxx’s office maintained positivity, with spokesperson Alex Ives reporting, "Everything seems to be okay," confirming her stable condition following the fall. Witnesses recounted how she was seen actively engaging with medical staff and was lucid throughout the ordeal.
This unfortunate event unfolded on the first day of the 119th Congress, marking the start of new legislative initiatives and discussions. Foxx has represented North Carolina's 5th Congressional District since 2005, making her the longest-serving congressional representative from the state. Her experience is significant, particularly as she played a key role during the events leading up to her fall; she had been nominated as a teller to record votes during the House's proceedings.
Throughout her tenure, Foxx has been known for her active participation and engagement on legislative issues, serving previously as chair of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. Her colleagues and constituents appreciated her commitment to their interests.
The staircase where Foxx fell is notoriously known for being part of the impressive yet old architecture of the Capitol, which shows wear from decades of use. After the incident, the stairs were temporarily blocked to clean up the area, ensuring the safety of other members and visitors.
Following her treatment, Foxx emerged from the physician's office, eager to confirm her recovery to her constituents and supporters. This recovery process is significant not only for Foxx personally but also for the political dynamics as Congress continues its session.
Foxx's incident is not the first time legislation has been overshadowed by health incidents involving older Congressional members, as other lawmakers such as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell have also faced health-related issues recently.
Foxx’s resilience and light-hearted commentary following her fall have served to bolster the spirits of her supporters, who are grateful for her leadership. The congresswoman continues to engage actively with her district, reminding everyone of her strength, not only physically but also politically.
With her experience and tenacity, Foxx is expected to bounce back quickly from her injuries. Her legislative priorities remain clear as she focuses on serving her constituents effectively through the new Congress. Indeed, as she puts it, her mountain woman spirit remains unbroken, ready to face any challenges head-on.
Following her recovery, all eyes will be on Rep. Foxx as she continues her work, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her role and to her North Carolina constituents. Foxx successfully challenges her physical setbacks with the same resolve she approaches her duties as a congresswoman.