Former GOP Rep. Michael Grimm partially paralyzed following horse riding accident

By 
 November 11, 2024

Former New York Republican Rep. Michael Grimm made headlines just over 10 years ago when he was indicted on a slew of federal charges.

The ex-lawmaker was in the news again this week following reports that he has been hospitalized with paralysis. 

Ex-congressman paralyzed from the chest down

According to the New York Post, Grimm is currently undergoing treatment at New Jersey's Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation.

Vincent Ignizio is a former Republican councilman who serves as executive director of the New York City Board of Elections, and he provided an update on Grimm's condition.

"I hate to even say it. Mike is paralyzed from the chest down," the Post quoted Ignizio as saying of his friend. "He's currently immobilized and is currently being treated to try to give him the function that he can obtain. A lot of prayers are needed."

The newspaper noted that a GoFundMe page has been created to help defer some of the expenses that Grimm's treatment is expected to generate.

Former Democratic opponent contributes to Grimm's fundraiser

"Our friend, former Marine, FBI Agent, and US Congressman Michael Grimm was paralyzed following a devastating accident when thrown from a horse in September 2024," the page states.

"He has been in the most devastating of situations and through the grace of God, Mr. Grimm has miraculously thread the needle to survive," it continues.

"Yet, his ongoing care and the treatment to walk again will cost millions of dollars. For a man who has dedicated his life to helping others, we now humbly ask that you give generously to help him," the page goes on to add.

The Post pointed out that a donation has been made by former Brooklyn City Councilman Domenic Recchia, who Grimm once defeated in a congressional race.

Grimm pleaded guilty to federal charges in 2014

"This isn't a Democratic or Republican issue. It's a human issue. He's a human being," Recchia said. "Michael Grimm gave his life for our country in the Armed Services. We have to unite together. It was a tragic accident. Hopefully one day he’ll walk again."

Grimm's political career came to an end when he pleaded guilty in 2014 to fraudulently underreporting $900,000 in taxable income as well as lying under oath while serving in Congress.

The Post recalled how Grimm left Congress in 2015 and attempted a comeback in 2018 but lost his primary race to Republican Rep. Dan Donovan.

" A free people [claim] their rights, as derived from the laws of nature."
Thomas Jefferson