Mitch McConnell freezes again, raising further health concerns
Covington, Kentucky – Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell appeared to freeze for more than 30 seconds while speaking to reporters in Kentucky on Tuesday.
What disease does Mitch McConnell have?: Why did he freeze again
The 81-year-old was asked whether he would run for re-election in 2026, but he paused before answering. Aides attempted to prompt him, but it took several more seconds for McConnell to recover.
He then answered two more questions, which had to be repeated by staff. He made no comments about his health before leaving with aides.
A spokesperson for McConnell said he “felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today.”
This is the second time in just over a month that McConnell has appeared to freeze while speaking to reporters. In July, he paused mid-sentence for approximately 20 seconds during a press conference at the US Capitol.
McConnell was admitted to hospital for a week after suffering a concussion and a fractured rib following a fall outside a Washington area hotel in March. He was transferred to a rehabilitation facility and did not return to the Senate until mid-April.
This latest episode will again raise questions about the health of the Kentucky senator heading into what will be a busy autumn legislative session.
President Joe Biden’s press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said “we wish him well, a speedy recovery” when asked about McConnell during a press briefing.
Concern over McConnell’s health follows questions about the condition of 90-year-old California Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein, who was absent from the chamber for months after being diagnosed with a severe case of shingles.
The average age for members of the US Senate is 65.