Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 82, experienced a fall at the U.S. Capitol following a Republican luncheon, resulting in a minor facial cut and a sprained wrist. Despite the incident, McConnell returned to his office unaided and has been cleared to continue his duties.
This event adds to a series of health-related incidents for McConnell in recent years. In March 2023, he was hospitalized after a fall that caused a concussion and a fractured rib. Additionally, in July 2023, he experienced a public episode where he momentarily froze during a press conference, which was later attributed to the earlier concussion.
McConnell, who contracted polio at the age of two, has announced plans to step down as the Senate Republican leader in January but intends to complete his current term, which extends until February 2027. His leadership has been pivotal in shaping the Republican agenda, including efforts to block Democratic initiatives and influence the composition of the Supreme Court.
The recent fall has raised concerns about McConnell’s health and ability to fulfill his senatorial responsibilities. However, his office has assured that he is fit to continue his work, and he remains a significant figure in the Senate as the transition to new leadership approaches.
.@SenJohnThune about reports that @LeaderMcConnell fell: “He is fine, he is in his office.” pic.twitter.com/5FA0QWeCoy
— CSPAN (@cspan) December 10, 2024