Hawaii 24/7 Staff

Sen. Daniel Inouye remained in hospital for a fourth day Monday after a fainting spell on Capitol Hill.

Inouye, who as the Senate’s president pro tempore is third in the presidential line of succession, reportedly was transferred Sunday from George Washington Hospital to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

In a statement issued by his office, Inouye said:

“For the most part, I am OK. However, I am currently working with my doctors to regulate my oxygen intake. Much to my frustration, while undergoing this process, I have to remain in the hospital for my own safety and to allow the necessary observation. I will be back on the Hill as soon as my doctors allow it. Thank you all for the kind words and continued support.”

Gov. Neil Abercrombie also issued a message of aloha and wishes for a speedy recovery to Inouye: “We are in close touch with Sen. Inouye and his office. He is alert, feisty and ready to get back to work as soon as possible.”

This is the second trip to a hospital in less than a month for the long-time senator. Inouye, 88, sustained a minor cut to the back of his head in a fall Nov. 15 at his Maryland home.

He was treated and released from the Bethesda Naval Hospital.

Inouye has served in the Senate since 1963 and is its most senior member. He serves as chairman of the Appropriations Committee.