Former U.S. Rep. Vito Fossella spoke at a weekend health care forum, fueling speculation that he could return to politics.

It was one of Fossella’s first political appearances since he left office last year. He left after being arrested on drunken driving charges and a subsequent revelation that he had fathered a child in an extramarital affair.

Richmond County Republican Committee Chairman John Friscia (FRISH’-ah) says Fossella made an impromptu presentation Friday night at a Staten Island forum. Friscia says he’s hopeful the 44-year-old Fossella will run again.

Fossella’s former seat is now held by Democratic Rep. Mike McMahon.

Fossella did not immediately respond to a message left for him by The Associated Press through a Republican Party official.