Johnny IsaksonGeorgia Republican Sen. Johnny Isakson has Parkinson's disease, but says the condition won't alter his decision to seek re-election in 2016 or his ability to serve if he wins a new term.
The 70-year-old lawmaker announced his diagnosis in a statement accompanied by a note from his doctor that described the current symptoms as mild. Dr. Thomas Holmes wrote that Isakson is fully capable of running again and serving another term.
Isakson is in his second Senate term. He is a heavy favorite for re-election, and Democrats have yet to recruit a challenger.
In his statement, Isakson said he was diagnosed with Parkinson's last year, and takes two medicines for the disease. He walks with a slowed, shuffling gait, which he said is a result of the illness.
In a news release, Gov. Nathan Deal said Isakson would meet his health challenge head-on.
"In the 35 years that I've known Johnny Isakson, he has risen to meet - and overcome - every obstacle he's encountered with determination and a smile on his face," Deal said. "There's not a doubt in my mind that he and Diane will rise to meet this challenge."