A debate in Philadelphia took a dramatic turn on Tuesday when Democratic mayoral candidate Lynne Abraham collapsed on stage on-air.
As another candidate spoke, a loud thud could be heard off-camera as Abraham tumbled from her podium. A wide-shot then revealed her on the floor as several of her opponents rushed across the stage to help her up.
“I was on a riser,” Abraham said later, according to local station WCAU. “I leaned over to look at Tony and the lights went out.”
Abraham reportedly blamed the moment on low blood pressure. She regained consciousness shortly after falling over.
“It’s a little bit embarrassing but I fell gracefully,” Abraham said. “I didn’t hurt anything. I’m fine.”
Abraham did not return for the rest of the debate, but held a press conference afterward and assured all that she was in good spirits,
She had good reason: a poll taken after the debate showed that 54% of participants considered voting for Abraham, according to WCAU.
Lynne is feeling great! Waiting now to talk to the press pic.twitter.com/3SpG5O0XGV
— Lynne Abraham (@LynneForMayor) April 8, 2015
Watch the video:
h/t Mediaite
Republican spin would have been “she didn’t faint, she was answering the question “Where will you find money for education?” by looking for loose change on the floor!”
Poor woman
Well, now that’s one way to shoot for the sympathy vote. /s
I do hope she is okay and got a bite to eat afterward.
Probably caused by dehydration. Vasovagal Syncope during public speaking is almost always caused by dehydration (from personal experience).
Stay hydrated. Keep a Gatorade handy.
Dehydration and low blood sugar can do this. So, drink and eat before heading out to stand under hot lights and be under the stress of debating. Hope she improves and wins.