SANTA ANA, Calif. (CNS) — Rep. Michelle Steel, R-Huntington Beach, who was sworn into office on Sunday, announced Wednesday that she has tested positive for COVID-19.
The former Orange County supervisor said she found out Wednesday morning that she had been exposed to someone infected with coronavirus, prompting her to get tested.
"This morning I learned I had been in contact with an individual who tested positive for COVID-19," Steel said in a prepared statement. "I have no symptoms, but out of an abundance of caution received a test through the Office of the Attending Physician this afternoon and tested positive. At the advice of the Attending Physician, and to protect the health of my colleagues, I will be quarantining."
Steel's announcement was released not long before members of the Southland congressional delegation found themselves barricaded in their offices and other locations as supporters of President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol as Congress prepared to certify the results of the Nov. 3 election.
The congresswoman representing California's 48th District later condemned what's happening at the Capitol in a Twitter post.
"Violence is never, ever the answer. As Americans we are blessed with the right to make our voices heard in support of our democracy, but turning to violence is always wrong. I am praying for the Capitol Police today, and am thankful for their work to keep us safe."