Senator David Perdue (R-GA) is speaking during a campaign event while running for re-election at the Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub in Milton, Georgia, December 21, 2020.
Al Drago | Reuters
Georgia’s Sen. David Perdue is in quarantine after contacting someone who tested positive for Covid-19, his campaign said Thursday, less than a week before the Republican by-election against Jon Ossoff.
Perdue, 71, tested negative for coronavirus, his campaign said.
His elimination against Ossoff is one of two leaks in Georgia that will determine whether Republicans or Democrats have majority control of the U.S. Senate in 2021.
In the other race, incumbent Senator Kelly Loeffler, Perdue’s Republican colleague, faces Democratic Priest Raphael Warnock.
“This morning, Senator Perdue was informed that he came into close contact with someone in the campaign who tested positive for COVID-19,” Perdue’s campaign said in a statement.
“Both Senator Perdue and his wife gave negative results today, but following his doctor’s recommendations and in accordance with CDC guidelines, they will be quarantined. The senator and his wife were tested regularly throughout the campaign, and the team will continue to follow CDC guidelines. Additional information will be provided when available. “
Perdue had been scheduled to appear with Loeffler at a rally and New Year’s Eve campaign concert in Gainesville on Thursday afternoon.
In the last days before Tuesday’s second round, Republicans have stepped up their efforts to get the vote, as data shows Democrats had an advantage in the early turnout.
President Donald Trump is scheduled to campaign in Georgia on Monday for Perdue and Loeffler.
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