Congresswoman’s Retirement Imminent as Health Condition Deteriorates

Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton of Virginia recently made a shocking revelation about her health. Earlier this year, the 55-year-old announced that she had Parkinson’s and intended to continue serving in Congress. However, in a surprising turn of events, Wexton disclosed on Monday that she will not seek reelection due to a worsening in her condition, as reported by Politico. It appears that she has been diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurological disorder that she describes as “a kind of ‘Parkinson’s on steroids'” in a statement. The similarities in symptoms often lead to confusion between the two conditions.

Speaking to the Washington Post from her home in Leesburg, Wexton expressed that those close to her were aware of her long-standing struggles. She stated, “I’ll be able to relax and enjoy the time I have left and the time I have left in Congress.” Wexton, who has two college-age sons with her husband Andrew, explained that there is no improvement with PSP, according to NBC News. She shared, “I’ll continue treatment options to manage my symptoms, but they don’t work as well with my condition as they do for Parkinson’s.” Her new diagnosis came about after noticing a lack of desired response to treatment over the past several months.

Wexton made headlines in 2018 when she defeated a Republican incumbent as part of the “blue wave” that swept through Congress. Last year, she successfully won a closely contested reelection campaign in her northern Virginia district. However, staying in office would have required a challenging campaign. The PSP has already impacted her speech and ability to walk. In a heartfelt statement, Wexton conveyed her disappointment about having to give up something she has cherished after many years of serving her community. (Read more Jennifer Wexton stories.)