Congressional delegation now expected to attend Mandela memorial service
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}FILE: July 18, 2012: Former South African President Nelson Mandela as he celebrated his birthday with family in Qunu, South Africa. (AP)
A congressional delegation is expected to go to Nelson Mandela’s memorial services in South Africa and is scheduled leave Sunday, Fox News learned Saturday.
It is unclear who House Speaker John Boehner is sending, but members of the Congressional Black Caucus are expected to be on the trip.
President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama also will travel to South Africa next week to honor Mandela, the White House said Friday.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Former President George W. Bush, as well as Laura Bush, plan to travel with the Obamas on Air Force One to the services, a spokesman confirmed.
Mandela, the former South African president who led the fight to end apartheid, died Thursday at age 95.
Boehner has said he plans to adjourn the House next Friday, which could give lawmakers just enough time to travel to South Africa. A state burial has been set for Dec. 15.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Fox News’ Chad Pergram contributed to this report.