Atlanta

Sen. David Perdue in quarantine after COVID-19 exposure, days before crucial runoff

ATLANTA — Senator David Perdue is in quarantine after he was informed he came into close contact with someone with COVID-19, campaign officials said Thursday.

[SPECIAL SECTION: Coronavirus Pandemic in Georgia]

“Both Senator Perdue and his wife tested negative today, but following his doctor’s recommendations and in accordance with CDC guidelines, they will quarantine,” campaign officials said.

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The news comes just days before Perdue’s crucial Senate race against Democrat Jon Ossoff on Jan 5. Twin runoffs between Perdue and Ossoff and Republican incumbent Kelly Loeffler and Democratic challenger Raphael Warnock will determine the balance of power in Congress as President-elect Joe Biden takes office.

It’s unclear how long Perdue will remain in quarantine, but officials said he will follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which suggest isolating for 14 days after exposure.

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