A senator, with immense influence over the delicate balance of power in the forthcoming upper house of the US congress, has undergone surgery after suffering "symptoms of a stroke".
If Tim Johnson, the senator from South Dakota, is to be replaced, Republicans could take control of the senate from the Democrats.
Julianne Fisher, Johnson's communications director, said in a statement: "Senator Johnson continues to undergo testing and procedures at George Washington University hospital."
He was described as being in a criticial condition but showing signs of recovery.
With Johnson, Democrats, who took control of the congress from Republicans in last month's elections, would control the senate 51-49 when the 110th congress convenes on January 4.
Replacement
But in the event of him being replaced, South Dakota law says the state governor, Michael Rounds, who is a Republican, would name someone to finish the final two years of his six-year term. An election for a successor would be held in November 2008.
If Rounds named a Republican, that would put the Senate at 50-50, with Dick Cheney, the vice-president, breaking any tie and putting Republicans in charge.
The only way there would be a vacancy to fill is if Johnson died or resigned. Even if incapacitated, he could remain in office, according to the senate historian's office.
Johnson was first elected to the senate in 1996 after serving as South Dakota's congressman for five terms, before being elected to the senate. He battled prostate cancer in 2004. After surgery, all tests showed him clear of the disease.