Bernie Sanders will participate in the next Democratic primary debate later this month, an aide confirmed Thursday, while the Vermont senator's wife reported that he is “up and about” following a heart procedure that forced him off the campaign trail.

“Yesterday, he spent much of the day talking with staff about policies, cracking jokes with the nurses and doctors, and speaking with his family on the phone,” Jane Sanders said in a statement.


“His doctors are pleased with his progress, and there has been no need for any additional procedures,” she added. “We expect Bernie will be discharged and on a plane back to Burlington before the end of the weekend. He'll take a few days to rest, but he's ready to get back out there and is looking forward to the October debate.”