Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is pictured holding the sports section of The Washington Post on July 12, 2026. Sitting next to him is his wife, Elaine Chao.
Source: Office of U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell
McConnell, 84, who has been absent from the Senate since being hospitalized on June 14, also provided a photo of himself and a statement explaining his condition. Speculation about his absence and hospitalization has intensified in recent weeks, particularly after it was reported that he suffered a cardiac arrest at his home and emergency services responded.
McConnell, a polio survivor, sought to quell speculation about his health.
“Last month, I suffered a fall that landed me in the hospital,” McConnell said in a statement to voters. “Doctors confirmed that I did not have any broken bones or concussion. I did not have a heart attack or stroke. There was no tumor or bleeding. However, I briefly lost consciousness and was taken to the hospital.”
The former Senate Republican leader also said he “had to deal with mild pneumonia” while in the hospital. In a photo released with the statement, McConnell holds a copy of the July 12 sports section of the Washington Post.
McConnell is the longest-serving leader in Senate history. He stepped down from his leadership post at the beginning of this Congress, handing over the reins to Sen. John Thune (R.S.D.).
Last week, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear asked Mr. McConnell to provide an update on his health and fitness for office after the senator’s office provided few updates on Mr. McConnell’s medical condition during his hospitalization and questions swirled about Mr. McConnell’s medical condition.
McConnell said in a statement that he remains fit to serve but does not intend to return to the Senate just yet.
“I’m frustrated, but this process takes time, and on medical advice, I won’t be able to return to the Senate floor to vote just yet,” he said. “But in the meantime, rest assured that I will not be taking time off from my important Senate work to you. I am working closely with legislative staff on current issues, and I am working closely with my team in Kentucky to help provide timely voter services across the commonwealth.”
McConnell will retire at the end of his term next year.
