Overview
- Sen. Mitch McConnell has not made a public appearance since he was hospitalized after a fall on June 14 and his team’s most recent formal update said he was discharged from rehab to continue therapy at home on Aug. 6.
- Rep. James Comer and other GOP officials say McConnell’s staff are hoping he will return when the Senate reconvenes on Sept. 14, but McConnell has not personally confirmed a timeline.
- The senator has missed about 60 roll-call votes since his hospitalization, a gap that has had real effects on legislation and confirmations during a slim Republican majority.
- McConnell’s office has issued only two photos and occasional statements, journalists reported heavy security at his Washington home, and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has publicly demanded on-camera proof of capacity to serve or resignation.
- If McConnell does not resume duties his seat would remain occupied unless he resigns or is otherwise removed, a reality that keeps short-term Senate math and the November contest for his seat the key items to watch.