Bill Clinton in hospital for chest pains, undergoes heart surgery

Former President Bill Clinton underwent heart surgery after being taken to a New York hospital, the New York Times is confirming.

Clinton underwent surgery after a bypass graft from his 2004 surgery became obstructed. Two stents were inserted into the former President’s native coronary artery, and Clinton is said to be in “good spirits.” Clinton earlier has stated that he hasn’t quite rebounded after the original surgery in 2004:

“One of the things I noticed is that on normal days ever since I had that heart surgery, I’m a lot more laid back and a lot more relaxed and a lot more healthy.

“But I also noticed since I had the surgery – and this is what you picked up in the campaign – that if I’m really tired, it’s more difficult for me than it was when I was back in politics before I had the heart problem. I have no explanation for why that is. I’m just observing it. It’s neither an excuse for any mistake I made or anything else. I’m just explaining. It’s something I’ve noticed. My life has changed.”

In a statement released by the former President’s office, Clinton’s counselor Douglas J. Band said the following about Clinton’s recovery:

“President Clinton is in good spirits and will continue to focus on the work of his foundation and Haiti’s relief and long-term recovery efforts.”

The former President is 63 years old.