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Former U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss recovering after minor stroke this week

ATLANTA — Former U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss of Georgia is recovering after he had a minor stroke this week.

Sen. David Perdue, who won Chambliss’ former seat when he retired in 2015, issued a statement Thursday afternoon.

“Bonnie and I are praying for Saxby Chambliss. He and his wife Julianne have been dear friends to us and are true public servants for the people of Georgia. We wish Saxby a speedy recovery and are keeping his entire family in our thoughts and prayers,” Perdue wrote.

Channel 2 Action News partners at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Chambliss had the minor stroke on Tuesday and was taken to Grady Memorial. The newspaper received this statement from a family spokesperson:

“He is doing well, resting comfortably, and is looking forward to a full recovery. Saxby and his wife Julianne thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers during this time.”

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The Republican served the state of Georgia in both chambers of Congress. Chambliss first was an U.S. House representative from 1995 to 2003 before he defeated former Sen. Max Cleland in 2002 U.S. Senate race.

Chambliss decided to retire from politics and not run for another term in 2014. Perdue won the 2014 election over Democrat Michelle Nunn.

On Tuesday, Perdue will face off in a runoff for his Senate seat against Democrat Jon Ossoff.

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