Kentucky governor urges Sen. McConnell to confirm ability to serve or step down
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Governor Andy Beshear wrote to Senator Mitch McConnell demanding proof of his capacity to fulfill Senate duties, warning he may seek a replacement if the senator does not respond.
Governor Andy Beshear sent a letter to Senator Mitch McConnell asking the Kentucky Republican to verbally address constituents and demonstrate his ability to serve in the U.S. Senate, or consider resignation. Beshear said McConnell has been absent from public duties for 43 days since a June 14 hospitalization, casting no votes and providing only two photos and brief statements about his condition.
“During that time you have cast zero votes, engaged in no official activities, and aside from two photos and corresponding statements, have made no effort to communicate with your Kentucky constituents or the nation,” Beshear wrote.
Beshear warned that if McConnell does not comply, he will ask Senate Majority Leader John Thune to investigate the senator’s health and begin procedures to replace him. Thune responded that the matter is between McConnell and Kentucky voters and not within his purview.
McConnell’s office declined to comment on the governor’s request. The senator has previously announced plans to retire at the end of his term in 2026, and a special election, not a gubernatorial appointment, would be required to fill any vacancy under Kentucky law. Rep. Andy Barr, who won the Republican primary, is currently favored to succeed McConnell.