An update has been released on the health and campaign status of Republican State Senate candidate and former Trion Mayor Lanny Thomas following a recent medical emergency.

In a statement released Thursday evening on behalf of the Thomas family, Christian Thomas said the family is thankful for the many thoughts, prayers, and messages of support they have received. The statement said one message in particular has stood out: “God isn’t finished with Lanny yet.”

According to the family, Thomas did not suffer a heart attack. Instead, he experienced a medical emergency that required surgery to make repairs around his heart. The procedure reportedly lasted several hours, and the family said they are grateful for the surgical team and the care he received.

The statement said the surgery went well and that Thomas continues to recover while spending time with family and close friends. His current focus is on healing, but the family says he is eager to complete his recovery and return to the campaign trail.

The family also emphasized that the medical emergency was not caused by any underlying health condition, saying Thomas has always been a healthy and active individual.

On the campaign side, the Thomas family expressed appreciation to opponent Jack Zibluk for pausing campaign activity following the medical emergency, calling it a gesture that spoke highly of his character. However, after communication between both campaigns, the Committee to Elect Lanny Thomas to Senate has encouraged Zibluk to continue campaigning.

The statement also said the Thomas campaign is continuing to carry out prior commitments that had already been scheduled before the surgery.

Based on his progress so far, the family said they are confident Thomas will be able to return to the campaign and continue working to earn the trust of voters across the 53rd District. They also said they fully expect, based on guidance from his medical team, that he will be able to serve as State Senator if elected.

The update was released at 7:30 p.m. on March 19, 2026.