House

Barbara Lee tests positive for COVID-19 in latest breakthrough case

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) announced that she has tested positive for the novel coronavirus in a breakthrough case.

In a statement on Tuesday, Lee shared that she has tested positive for COVID-19, saying she is experiencing “mild cold-like symptoms.” 

“This week, I received a breakthrough positive case COVID-19 result. Fortunately, I have only mild cold-like symptoms, but I know it could been much worse had I not been vaccinated and boosted,” Lee said in a statement. 

Lee also said that she has entered isolation and will follow guidelines and health protocols “to keep my loved ones, my staff, and my community safe.” 

“I’m grateful for the miraculous work of vaccines, and encourage everyone to get vaccinated and boosted,” Lee said. “Please stay masked and follow all of the CDC’s health guidelines as you gather with loved ones this holiday. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.”

Lee’s announcement comes after other lawmakers, including Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), announced that they tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Colorado Rep. Jason Crow (D) also announced on Sunday that he tested positive for COVID-19 in a breakthrough case after returning from an official delegation trip to Ukraine.

“I just returned from an official congressional delegation visit to Ukraine and tested positive for a breakthrough COVID infection,” Crow said in a tweet. “I’m thankful to be fully vaccinated and boosted and experiencing only mild symptoms (the vaccine is safe and effective).”

According to a tally from The Hill, there are 19 breakthrough COVID-19 cases in the House and six in the Senate.