WASHINGTON — US Senator Mitch McConnell returned to the Senate on Monday for the first time in three months after being hospitalized following a fall at his Washington home.
The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican attended the Senate floor and cast a vote on a judicial nomination, marking his first vote since 11 June.
“I’m really looking forward to being back on the Senate floor and seeing my colleagues,” McConnell said before voting.
McConnell said his recovery had been “long and often frustrating” and that the lingering effects of childhood polio had made the process more difficult.
“I’m still not quite back to 100%,” he said, adding that he would do his best to be present for important votes.
His prolonged absence had prompted speculation about his health and calls from Democrats for greater transparency.
McConnell’s office said in July that he had fallen at home on 14 June and had been treated in hospital for mild pneumonia. He was subsequently absent from the Senate as questions grew over his health.
The veteran Republican has faced health concerns in recent years. He suffered minor injuries after a fall in 2024, while another fall in 2023 resulted in a concussion and hospitalisation. Later in 2023, he appeared to freeze briefly while speaking to reporters, prompting questions about his health.
McConnell’s return coincided with the Senate’s first day back after a five-week recess. Lawmakers are entering the final stretch of legislative work before November’s midterm elections, which could alter the balance of power in Congress.
McConnell, who has served in the Senate for 41 years and is the longest-serving party leader in Senate history, is not seeking re-election. His current term expires in January.
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