Judge Neal Franklin leaves commissioners court meeting after saying he did not feel good. He appeared to have trouble verbally getting through the remainder of the agenda and was evaluated by medics outside of the meeting. (Smith County/Screenshot)

Smith County Judge Neal Franklin left before the commissioners court meeting had concluded Tuesday morning due to what appeared to be a medical issue.

Toward the end of the meeting, Franklin suddenly had trouble verbally getting through the remainder of the agenda.

He attempted to get through it but then said he did not feel good, at which time Commissioner John Moore asked for medical assistance.

Commissioner Terry Phillips offered to lead the rest of the meeting.

“I’m all right,” Franklin said, as he left his seat and walked out of the courtroom.

Moore encouraged a prayer, which was recognized as a “moment of silence” instead. Phillips picked up finishing out the agenda item, as a motion was already on the floor during the interruption. The commissioners discussed the remainder of the agenda then adjourned a couple minutes later.

Franklin, who remained alert and upright, was evaluated by emergency medical service at the Smith County Courthouse Annex. Later that afternoon, he was not present at the East Texas Mental Health Summit, held at the W.T. Brookshire Conference Center, where he had a speaking engagement. Andrews Center CEO Lynn Rutland told attendees Franklin was unable to be there as he was reportedly in the emergency room.

More information will be reported as it is made available.