Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) returned to Capitol Hill on Monday for the first time after a three-month absence due to health issues.
New: Sen. Mitch McConnell was just seen leaving his home in Washington, DC, for the first time after a three-month absence from the Senate due to health issues pic.twitter.com/FOderqr5kq
— Annie Grayer (@AnnieGrayerCNN) September 14, 2026
From CNN:
McConnell arrived at the Capitol for the evening vote series in a wheelchair, his appearance noticeably thinner and his speech slower than before his prolonged absence.
The 84-year-old was hospitalized on June 14, but did not initially disclose the reason for the hospitalization, leading to weeks of speculation over his health status.
The Kentucky Republican briefly spoke to reporters upon his return Monday, saying it’s “time to get back to work,” but he did not answer questions, including whether he should have been more transparent about his health during his absence.
“I must admit, after two years — two decades, actually — dodging your questions, I wasn’t sure how many of you would be here today, but I’m glad to see you,” he said.
“Time to get back to work, finish the job for this Congress,” he said, pointing to passing the annual farm bill and aiding Ukraine in its war against Russia.
In a written statement, McConnell said he’s “still not quite back to 100%, but I’ve assured Leader Thune that, as I continue with physical therapy on the advice of my doctors, I will do my best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me.”
Related: Trump On McConnell – ‘Mitch Is A Dour, Sullen, Unsmiling Political Hack’
It’s worth noting that McConnell has spent much of his career opposing paid sick leave and cutting healthcare. He just took 3 months of paid leave, with healthcare care subsidized by taxpayers.
Mitch McConnell, appearing frailer and his voice slower, tells reporters: “I must admit, after two years, two decades, actually dodging your questions, I wasn’t sure how many of you would be here today, but I’m glad to see you.”
“Time to get back to work, finish the job for this… pic.twitter.com/ZVITNOlwYm
— Manu Raju (@mkraju) September 14, 2026
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