CNN reports senator looked thinner, spoke slower in first appearance since June
Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., 84, returned to Capitol Hill on Monday evening in a wheelchair for Senate voting — his first public appearance since a June 14 fall at his Washington home led to his hospitalization, United Press International reported. CNN reported the senator looked noticeably thinner and spoke noticeably more slowly than in earlier public appearances.
McConnell spoke briefly to reporters, saying “it’s time to get back to work,” but did not answer questions about his absence or the lack of updates during it. “I must admit, after two years — two decades, actually — dodging your questions, I wasn’t sure how many of you would be here today, but I’m glad to see you,” he said.
McConnell was hospitalized June 14 after the fall and later dealt with pneumonia, UPI reported. His office did not disclose the reason for the hospitalization for weeks, and the senator issued no audio or video statements during the three-month span, leading to speculation about his health and status. After his hospitalization, his office said he transferred to a rehabilitation facility in July and was discharged to return home Aug. 6.
In July, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear called on McConnell to provide proof of his “capacity to serve” or resign. McConnell apparently did neither, UPI reported.
In a statement before his return Monday, McConnell said his recovery has been a “long and often frustrating process” and that effects from childhood polio “haven’t made it any easier.” “I’m still not quite back to 100%, but I’ve assured [Senate Majority Leader John Thune] that, as I continue with physical therapy on the advice of my doctors, I will do my best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me,” the statement said.
McConnell is not running for reelection, and his term is up in January.