McConnell’s office has not disclosed condition or return plans
No public update has been issued since Thursday, when McConnell’s office said he “continues to improve” and “appreciates the outpouring of support.” A spokesperson did not return a request for comment on Monday, and the office has not indicated whether the Kentucky Republican will be at the Capitol when the Senate returns next week.
McConnell was admitted to the hospital on June 14. His office released a statement that day saying he was “receiving excellent care.” A week later, it said he would not be voting that week. Then on Thursday, the office said he “continues to improve” while “continuing his recovery in the hospital.” No further details about his condition or expected recovery timeline have been provided.
The hospitalization adds to a series of health incidents in recent years. In March 2023, McConnell was hospitalized with a concussion after a fall at a Washington hotel and missed several weeks of Senate work. After returning, he twice froze during news conferences that summer, staring ahead before colleagues and staff came to his assistance. A year later, he fell and sprained his wrist while walking out of a GOP luncheon. McConnell had polio as a child and has long acknowledged difficulty walking and climbing stairs; he also tripped and fell in 2019 at his Kentucky home and underwent surgery for a fractured shoulder.
McConnell, 84, is the longest-serving Senate leader in history, having served as Republican leader from 2007 until last year. He is serving his final term, which ends in January, and has remained active as a rank-and-file senator, often using a wheelchair to get around when the chamber is in session. Senate Republicans hold a narrow majority in the lead-up to the midterm elections.