Louisiana Republican self-quarantining after exposure to Gohmert

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) said he is self-quarantining for 14 days out of caution due to exposure to Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas) who tested positive for the coronavirus on Wednesday. 

Johnson said he is exhibiting no symptoms but is self-quarantining since he had dinner with Gohmert and a small group of others on Monday night. He said the group was distanced, but they did not have masks on since they were eating. He said he was seated next to Gohmert at the dinner. 

In an interview with Fox News, Johnson said he is in D.C., but will be driving to Louisiana to quarantine. 

“This is life in the COVID reality,” he said. 

On Monday, I had dinner with my good friend, Rep. Gohmert. While I feel healthy, exhibit no symptoms, and have otherwise followed mask and social distancing guidelines, the attending physician has advised that I should self-quarantine for 14 days out of an abundance of caution. pic.twitter.com/1YxdmcDDVT

— Rep. Mike Johnson (@RepMikeJohnson) July 29, 2020

Johnson said he is quarantining based on guidance from the attending physician. He said he will take a COVID-19 test if it is recommended at any time. 

Johnson said there “seems to be no concern” about potential exposure during the House Judiciary Committee meeting on Tuesday since members were wearing masks and “appropriately distanced.” 

At least two other lawmakers, Rep. Kay Granger (R-Texas) and Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-Ariz.) said they will self-quarantine after exposure to Gohmert.