Vitter to Return to Senate Next Week
(excerpt)

WASHINGTON POST

WASHINGTON -- Louisiana Sen. David Vitter, who has been in seclusion since acknowledging dealings with a Washington escort service, "will be back next week," said a Senate colleague who has exchanged messages with him.

Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C., who has traded e-mails with his fellow Republican, told reporters that he expects Vitter to return to the Capitol by Tuesday, when the Senate will have roll call votes.

Vitter, 46, missed votes on Iraq policy matters on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. DeMint said his understanding is that Vitter has spent the week in Louisiana with his wife and their four children.

"That's the sense I got from trading e-mails," DeMint said.

Vitter's staff has declined to disclose his whereabouts or plans.