During a Senate session on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Mississippi Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, 77, collapsed at his podium in the state legislature, Jackson, MS. The incident, which occurred around 11 a.m. during a live broadcast, led to immediate attention from Senate staff and fellow lawmakers.
The moment when Lt. Gov. Hosemann, who has been in office since 2020, fell onto his microphone and podium before leaning to one side, was captured on video. Colleagues swiftly came to his aid, and the legislative session was adjourned promptly. Numerous senators were seen assisting their leader.
A woman’s voice was captured urgently calling “Delbert, Delbert,” followed by lawmakers crying out for medical help.
Capitol medical staff were on the scene in minutes. According to Hannah C. Millet, Communications Director for Hosemann’s office, the lieutenant governor remained conscious during the event and declined to be taken to a hospital. He was observed sitting up shortly after the fall and walked to his office without assistance. The lieutenant governor departed the Capitol accompanied by staff and security, then entered a government vehicle.
In the afternoon of the same day, Hosemann attributed the collapse to dehydration. “I am grateful for Mississippi’s phenomenal medical professionals and am ready to go back to work tomorrow,” he stated. “Lesson learned: Stay hydrated.” His office also released a statement confirming his good health and spirits.
The Legislature’s YouTube channel removed the recording of the incident, but clips had already started circulating on social media. When the Senate resumed at 2 p.m., Senate Pro Tempore Dean Kirby, R-Pearl, took over presiding duties. Kirby later informed reporters that Hosemann was “fine” and expected to return the next day.
Several state leaders, including Gov. Tate Reeves and Republican House Speaker Jason White, expressed their support for Hosemann and offered prayers for his recovery. Senate Finance Chairman Josh Harkins provided a firsthand update on Hosemann’s condition, stating, “As he walked out of the Capitol a little while ago, he looked at us and said, ‘Hey, that last bill was awful!’ He is doing well, and if I know him he will be trying to come back to the Capitol today.”
On Thursday, February 20, Hosemann returned to the Capitol as anticipated and received a standing ovation from his fellow senators. Republican Sen. Kevin Blackwell formally welcomed him back on behalf of the Senate and all Mississippians, and Hosemann resumed his regular duties presiding over the chamber.
Although Hosemann acknowledged that falling in front of an audience and interrupting the session was not his best moment, he handled the situation with humor and grace. He used the incident as a learning experience and, holding his water bottle, assured everyone that he was now prepared.
Adding a touch of humor to the situation, he suggested the Rules Committee acknowledge February 19 as “Hydration Awareness Day,” turning the incident into a humorous reminder.
Hosemann has a long history in Mississippi state government. Before becoming lieutenant governor in 2020, he served as Mississippi Secretary of State from 2008 to 2020. He has overseen several significant legislative initiatives during his tenure as lieutenant governor, including the 2022 tax cut debate and the 2024 Medicaid expansion proposal. Many political observers view him as a potential gubernatorial candidate in 2027, when current Gov. Tate Reeves’ term expires.
Despite the incident, Hosemann continues to lead an active lifestyle. The lieutenant governor expressed optimism about participating in the Mississippi Blues Marathon 5K (3.1 miles). He has previously completed the New York and Boston marathons. Besides his political and athletic activities, Hosemann is a devoted family man and outdoor enthusiast. He has been married for 54 years, has three children and nine grandchildren, and enjoys hunting.
