Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell can continue with his work schedule, congressional physician says

Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell has received clearance from the attending physician to Congress to continue with his planned schedule after an incident that raised concerns about his health. The incident occurred during an event in Kentucky where McConnell appeared to freeze up and remained silent for about 30 seconds. This was the second such incident in public this summer, which has led to speculation about his ability to continue as a leader within the Republican party.

McConnell’s health episode has triggered discussions among Republican senators, with some expressing quiet concern about his fitness to lead. Despite the guarded nature of McConnell, he reached out to his deputies in leadership after the incident. However, details about his health condition remain limited even among his closest colleagues.

At 81 years old, McConnell’s health has been a topic of concern, especially after previous incidents such as suffering a concussion and breaking a rib in a fall earlier this year. In response to the recent incident, Dr. Brian Monahan, the physician attending to Congress, stated that McConnell had been cleared to proceed with his schedule. Dr. Monahan noted that occasional lightheadedness is not uncommon during concussion recovery or due to dehydration.

While McConnell’s office indicated that he was momentarily lightheaded during the incident, no further information about his condition was provided. An aide assisted him during the news conference, repeating questions on his behalf. President Joe Biden mentioned speaking to McConnell and remarked that McConnell was his usual self over the phone. Biden attributed the response to the effects of a severe concussion and expressed confidence in McConnell’s recovery.

As the Senate prepares to convene following the August break, questions about McConnell’s health are expected to arise among his colleagues. His physical decline has been noticeable, affecting his speech and movement. The lack of comprehensive information from McConnell and his medical team has sparked discussions on Capitol Hill about his potential reelection in 2026 and his successor as the GOP leader.

Despite the uncertainty, fellow Republican senators have publicly voiced support for McConnell. Texas Senator John Cornyn, who has worked closely with McConnell, noted that he expects McConnell to continue as long as he wishes. Cornyn, along with other potential successors like Senator John Thune and Senator John Barrasso, has received reassurances from McConnell about his health.

McConnell’s friend and adviser, Scott Jennings, emphasized that McConnell remains active and engaged despite recent health setbacks. Jennings dismissed concerns about McConnell’s age, asserting that his recovery from the concussion is a separate matter. McConnell’s long tenure in the Senate and as a party leader underscores his resilience and dedication, despite facing health challenges over the years.

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