Jan 20, 2021 - Health

California Rep. Raul Ruiz contracts COVID-19

Photo of a masked Raul Ruiz wiping down his microphone at a committee hearing

Photo: Greg Nash-Pool via Getty

Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) tweeted Tuesday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus.

Why it matters: He is the latest member of Congress to contract the disease since pro-Trump rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, forcing lawmakers to lock down in close quarters. Some lawmakers have criticized colleagues for refusing to wear masks while in lockdown.

  • In addition to Ruiz, Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.), Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) and Lou Correa (D-Calif.) have seen positive COVID tests since the insurrection, per ABC News.

What he's saying: "In preparation for attending the inauguration of President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris, I have taken multiple COVID-19 tests over the last 72 hours," Ruiz tweeted Tuesday.

  • "After receiving an initial negative result over the weekend, this morning I tested positive for COVID- 19."
  • "While I do have mild symptoms, overall I am feeling well and will self-isolate for the recommended time. Thank you everyone for the well wishes."

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