Longtime political consultant and pollster Frank Luntz disclosed Thursday that he suffered a second stroke earlier this week, an event he described as obscured by severe vertigo and vomiting. The incident occurred Monday night and was severe enough to cause significant disruption at the Thayer Hotel at West Point, where Luntz was staying. “My apologies to the Thayer Hotel – the room was a mess,” he tweeted.
Luntz gained prominence for his work with Republican politicians during the 1990s and 2000s, particularly during the development of the “Contract with America” in 1994. His expertise lies in “message testing” and crafting language that helps corporations and politicians shape public opinion.
Known for his pivotal role in shaping politics, Luntz said that the stroke had left him struggling with mobility. “Three days later, I’m finding it very difficult to walk, even with assistance,” he wrote. The impairment has led him to cancel several public appearances, explaining that he walks “like an old man.”
Let me make one last comment on my health before moving onto more important things…
I suffered another stroke Monday night that was hidden by all the vertigo and vomiting. My apologies to the Thayer Hotel at West Point – the room was a mess.
Three days later, I’m finding it…
— Frank Luntz (@FrankLuntz) April 18, 2024
“But my thinking and strategizing are still as sharp as ever,” he affirmed in his social media update. Luntz expressed his optimism about returning to his regular activities as a political commentator soon. “You haven’t killed me off yet,” Luntz concluded, using a grit-filled emoticon to underscore his fighting spirit amidst health struggles.
Luntz is notable for his focus on the importance of word choice in shaping public opinion. He has been instrumental in creating influential phrases and framing strategies for political campaigns and corporate messaging.
REACTIONS:
I’m so sorry, wishing you all the best
— Prof Peter Hotez MD PhD (@PeterHotez) April 18, 2024
Prayers for you from me and Tonette.
— Scott Walker (@ScottWalker) April 18, 2024
Praying for you Frank. Hope you feel better soon!
— Megyn Kelly (@megynkelly) April 18, 2024
So sorry to hear this Frank.. wishing you a speedy recovery.
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) April 18, 2024
Praying for you, Frank. That's horrible.
— Brenden Dilley (@WarlordDilley) April 18, 2024