Watch CBS News

George Pataki pauses campaign for family emergency

Roughly two weeks after announcing his presidential bid, former three-term governor of New York George Pataki has cancelled campaign events in New Hampshire to take care of a family emergency.

His campaign said that his daughter, Allison, and her husband Dr. David Levy, were on a flight from Chicago to Seattle when Levy suffered a stroke. Allison Pataki is expecting their first child.

The plane was diverted to Fargo, North Dakota where Levy was placed in intensive care. Friday, he was transported back home to Chicago where he will remain in intensive care at Rush University Medical Center.

"This episode is a shock to us all, as David, only 30 years of age, is a strong young man who enjoyed excellent health," Pataki's statement read. "We are praying for his recovery and welcome everyone's prayers and good wishes."

The former New York governor thanked supporters on Twitter with a post on Friday:

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.