Bernie Sanders Has Surgery for Artery Blockage, Cancels Campaign Events ‘Until Further Notice’

Senator Bernie Sanders has had two stents inserted into one of his arteries, according to a campaign official. The Vermont independent, who is seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, underwent tests before the procedure was carried out.

“During a campaign event yesterday evening, Sen. Sanders experienced some chest discomfort,” Sanders’ Senior Advisor Jeff Weaver said in a statement on Wednesday.

“Following medical evaluation and testing he was found to have a blockage in one artery and two stents were successfully inserted.”

“Sen. Sanders is conversing and in good spirits. He will be resting up over the next few days. We are canceling his events and appearances until further notice, and we will continue to provide appropriate updates.”

Sanders is one of the major candidates in a crowded Democratic field. His presidential campaign just announced a major funding haul at the end of September. Sanders raked in $25.3 million and received 1.4 million individual donations, with the average donation just $18.

However, Sanders has not yet led in any major poll. He has been consistently behind former Vice President Joe Biden and Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren appears to be chipping away at his lead among progressive Democratic voters.