Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell today seemed to freeze again while addressing reporters, this time during a press conference in his home state of Kentucky. The incident comes just weeks after McConnell experienced a similar episode during his opening remarks at a Senate Republican press conference.
At Wednesday’s press conference, McConnell, 81, was asked about his thoughts on running for reelection in 2026. He sought clarification on the question three times before he appeared to freeze and stopped talking for nearly 30 seconds. One of his aides stepped in and repeated the question. After the senator remained unresponsive, the aide said, “We’re going to need a minute.”
McConnell was able to recover and then briefly responded to two more questions, both of which had to be repeated to him by his aide. The senator left before reporters could ask questions about his condition.
A spokesperson for McConnell later explained, “Leader McConnell felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today.” While the senator “feels fine,” he will see a doctor before his next public appearance as “a prudential measure,” according to an aide.
This episode mirrors a similar incident that occurred in July when McConnell abruptly halted his opening statement at a press conference on Capitol Hill. The senator froze for 19 seconds before being escorted away. He returned after a while and responded “I’m fine” to reporters concerned about his health.
Even before the two freeze-up episodes, public concerns had been mounting about McConnell’s health and ability to fulfill his duties effectively. On July 14, the senator tripped and fell after his flight out of Washington, D.C., was canceled. While he was not seriously injured, he has reportedly started using a wheelchair at crowded airports as a precaution. The senator also suffered a concussion and broken rib after a fall in March and had to spend six weeks away from the Senate.
McConnell’s recurring health episodes have raised questions about whether Americans should pay greater attention to age and health when electing public officials. President Joe Biden, in particular, is vying for reelection despite being 80 years old and showing signs of cognitive decline.
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