Senator Mitch McConnell, representing Kentucky, has been released from a rehabilitation center and will continue recovering at home. The 84-year-old former Senate leader was first hospitalized on June 14. It was later revealed that a fall led to his hospitalization and subsequent physical therapy.
No specific return date to the Capitol has been provided by McConnell. With the traditional August recess approaching, senators will soon be absent from Washington, and votes will be paused for around five weeks.
McConnell stated, “On the advice of my doctors, I’ll maintain an intensive regimen of physical therapy from home during the state work period, and I’ll continue to engage with my staff and colleagues on important Senate business.” This indicates his commitment to remain active in his role while recovering.
McConnell’s early life included battling polio, which he has acknowledged affects his ability to walk and climb stairs. His recovery involves a rigorous physical therapy program consisting of multiple daily sessions aimed at rebuilding strength and reducing the chances of future falls.
Despite his absence, McConnell intends to complete his current term, which ends in January. His absence has been noted in the Senate, impacting proceedings such as the advancement of a farm bill out of committee. Committee Chairman Sen. John Boozman of Arkansas mentioned discussing the bill with McConnell, emphasizing McConnell’s commitment to advocating for agricultural communities in Kentucky.
However, there have been concerns about McConnell’s transparency regarding his health status. Andy Beshear, Kentucky’s Democratic governor, urged McConnell to demonstrate his fitness for service post-hospitalization or to consider resigning.