ToplineSen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., announced Monday that he was positive for coronavirus. Officials have returned the Capitol Complex to stricter virus restrictions after he was fully vaccinated in the latest case.WASHINGTON DC, JULY 21: Senator Lindsey Graham (Republican from South Carolina) answers reporters' questions while he... [+] to a vote at Capitol Hill on Wednesday July 21, 2021. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) Los Angeles Times via Getty ImagesThe Key FactsGraham stated that he had been experiencing flu-like symptoms since Saturday night. He was informed by Capitol physician Brian Monahan on Monday afternoon about his positive test. Graham described mild symptoms including a feeling of a sinus infection. His spokesperson Kevin Bishop stated that he received the Pfizer vaccine. Graham stated that he would be in quarantine for 10 days to prevent him from voting on the $1 trillion infrastructure package being discussed in the Senate. This development comes amid a row between Republicans on the House side and Monahan's reintroduction a mask mandate due to the spread of the highly infectious Delta variant. While masks are not required on the Senate side, Monahan recommends them for indoor use in crowded spaces according to the Centers for Disease Control's latest guidelines.Important QuoteIt is a blessing that I was vaccinated. Without vaccination, I'm certain I wouldn't feel the same as I do now. Graham stated in his statement that my symptoms would have been worse.Important BackgroundGraham's infection follows the announcement by Rep. Vern Buchanan, (R-Fla.), that he had tested positive for the virus last month. He was fully vaccinated and urged the public to be vigilant. Clay Higgins, a Republican from Louisiana, is another House Republican. He was positive for the virus last week, but did not specify if he had been vaccinated.What to WatchSenators predict that the infrastructure package will be discussed and voted upon by the end the week. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., stated that we should be done by Thursday. Graham voted last week to continue to debate the package.
