Former Congressman Allen West Released From Hospital

Former Congressman Allen West Released From Hospital
Former congressman and retired Lt. Col. Allen West speaks during Faith and Freedom Coalition's Road to Majority event in Washington on June 19, 2014. (Molly Riley/AP file photo)
Zachary Stieber
5/25/2020
Updated:
5/26/2020

Former congressman Allen West was released from the hospital on May 25.

The retired lieutenant colonel, who is running for chairmanship of the Texas Republican Party, was injured in a motorcycle crash over the weekend in Texas.

According to a statement from the campaign, West was riding his motorcycle when a car cut him off. West then crashed into another motorcyclist. He was taken to Baylor Scott & White Health in Dallas.

West’s campaign said in a statement before the release that he “is in good spirits and is looking forward to returning home for his recovery.”

“The West family is filled with such joy and thankfulness that Allen will be released on this Memorial day. All of the prayers and well wishes have been received and greatly appreciated. However, Allen and his family want the public to focus on remembering and honoring America’s fallen warriors on this day.”

In an earlier statement released by the campaign, West said, “I am alive by the grace of God.”

Citing local law enforcement, the campaign said the vehicle that caused the crash wasn’t identified.

West’s injuries were listed as a concussion, fractured bones, and lacerations. The other motorcyclist also suffered injuries that weren’t life-threatening.

West served in the military for more than two decades and went on to represent Florida as a Republican U.S. congressman from 2011 to 2013. West moved to Texas after leaving national office.

After he’s recovered, West plans to advocate for conservative ideals.

George P. Bush, the Texas land commissioner, was among those who sent well-wishes after the accident. “Please join me in sending prayers for a quick recovery,” he said in a statement.