Republican leaders speak with hospitalized Sen. Mitch McConnell amid health speculation
Senate Republican leaders John Thune and John Barrasso each held phone conversations with Mitch McConnell, who remains in hospital for undisclosed health reasons, as uncertainty grows about his ability to return to work.
Senate Republican leaders have each spoken with Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell while he remains in the hospital more than three weeks after being admitted for undisclosed health issues. Aides declined to provide details about his condition, prompting speculation about his prognosis and whether he will be able to attend the Senate’s return to Washington after a two-week recess.
John Thune, the Senate majority leader, said he spoke with McConnell by phone on Monday in a “lengthy and substantive conversation” that covered national security and other topics. Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, the No. 2 Republican, held a 20-minute call on Tuesday, discussing Senate races, the Supreme Court and additional matters. A spokesperson for Barrasso noted that McConnell was “fully engaged and is eager to get back to the Senate.”
Republican strategist Scott Jennings also posted that he talked with McConnell for about 20 minutes, mentioning discussions on politics, foreign policy and Senate history. McConnell’s office has issued brief statements saying he is receiving “excellent care,” is not voting that week, and appreciates the support he has received while recovering. The statements add that he continues to improve and is working with his staff on Kentucky and Senate issues during the recess.
The senator, 84, is set to retire at the end of his term in January. His recent hospitalization follows a series of earlier health incidents, including a concussion in 2023, a wrist sprain in 2024, and earlier falls that required surgery.