After tearing Achilles Burgum still planning to participate in republican primary debate

MILWAUKEE, WI (WDAY) -  North Dakota Governor and Presidential Candidate Doug Burgum spent some time in a Milwaukee hospital, Tuesday after tearing his Achilles playing a pickup basketball game on the eve of the first Republican presidential debate.

Campaign staff say Burgum suffered a leg injury while playing a pick-up game of basketball with staff members. Staffers say he was taken to the emergency room Tuesday, but is currently not hospitalized. There was some uncertainty Wednesday morning if Burgum would be able to appear at the debate, but campaign staff tell WDAY News that he still plans to take the stage.

Burgum posted on X, formerly Twitter, "I’ve played lots of pick-up games in my day! This isn’t the first time one has sent me to the ER. Appreciate all the well-wishes!"

I’ve played lots of pick-up games in my day! This isn’t the first time one has sent me to the ER. Appreciate all the well-wishes! #TeamBurgum pic.twitter.com/5YL3rCEnCd

— Doug Burgum (Text "DOUG" to 70177) (@DougBurgum) August 23, 2023

Burgum addressed media at a walk-thru, Wednesday afternoon saying, "If you're going to lead this country you oughta be able to stand on one leg for two hours."

The debate is scheduled to start tonight at 8 p.m. central time.