High-ranking SC lawmaker Chris Murphy says he’s getting treatment for alcohol abuse

“It has come to my attention that questions about my health have arisen publicly,” Murphy, R-Dorchester, said in a statement. “While this issue is deeply personal, I would like to share that after struggling with alcohol abuse, I have sought treatment and am currently taking steps to ensure I am healthy moving forward.”

Murphy, whose district includes parts of Dorchester and Charleston counties, continued in his statement that he is aware of the challenges moving forward, but looks forward to “taking them head on and being healthy and present come when the session begins in January.”

Murphy chairs the House Judiciary Committee, a powerful committee where hundreds of bills run through every year.

But Murphy has largely been absent this legislative session because of health reasons that colleagues said were largely due to COVID-19. In February, as Murphy was chairing a committee hearing, he abruptly left for a medical issue, and was taken to the hospital after an apparent seizure, a source with knowledge said at the time.

His attendance was scattered afterward.

He appeared for a recent committee hearing back in August on the House abortion bill, but missed the special session vote days after.

Murphy also was recently in the news after his wife filed to run and then dropped out of the race seeking an upcoming vacant S.C. Supreme Court seat.

It was not immediately clear whether Murphy’s absence from the State House will run until January.

After the November elections, the House returns in December for an organizational session, where the speaker hands out committee assignments and the respective committees choose their chairs.

Murphy did not immediately return a request for comment.

“Unfortunately, alcoholism is a disease that affects many families throughout generations, and mine is no different,” Murphy said in his statement. “However, I am extremely appreciative of my family, friends and colleagues for their support during this difficult time.”

House Speaker Murrell Smith, R-Sumter, declined to comment Monday on Murphy’s announcement.

The Speaker’s office does not wish to comment on the personal lives and affairs of House members,” his office said in a statement. “Without question, Speaker Smith wishes for the health and well-being of Representative Murphy and his family, and is supportive of anyone seeking treatment for addiction.”

Murphy is seeking reelection in November. He faces Democrat Sydney Clinton, of Dorchester County.

“Obviously, my thoughts are with Rep. Murphy and his family,” Clinton said in a statement, provided by the House Democratic Caucus. “I certainly hope he has a full and lasting recover. Substance abuse is a serious health matter, and I am glad he is seeking the assistance he needs.”

FitsNews first reported Murphy’s treatment.