Speaker Packard gets out of local hospital after dizzy spell
House Speaker Sherman Packard, 76, was discharged from Concord Hospital Wednesday after he had spent the previous night for observation after he experienced a dizzy spell the previous morning across the street from the State House.
The Londonderry Republican is serving in his 35th straight year representing Londonderry in the House of Representatives.
'Speaker Packard was experiencing unexplained dizziness yesterday at the Legislative Office Building and was taken to the hospital for observation out of an abundance of caution,' Packard's office said.
'He is doing very well, is in good spirits and would like to thank everyone who expressed concern and sent their well-wishes.'
Before heading home for rest, officials said Packard addressed his staff, offered some advice and thanked them as well.
'He's the hardest working speaker I've ever seen here,' said Terry Pfaff, the Legislature's chief operating officer, a former House member and retired firefighter.
'He's always here and he never stops.
'I know he wasn't pleased being taken away in an ambulance, but like everyone in that experience, he looked and sounded so much better after a good night's rest.'
The House of Representatives has a regular session Thursday, starting at 10 a.m.
Packard has often relied upon Deputy Speaker Steve Smith, R-Charlestown, to preside over the House while he had appointments or, on occasion, to give him a break.
Rep. Jim Kofalt, R-Wilton who Packard named as a special adviser earlier this year, has also wielded the gavel a bit during the 2025 session.
klandrigan@unionleader.com
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