McConnell provides health update after long unexplained absence

McConnell, 84, who has not been in the Senate since being hospitalized on June 14, submitted a photo of himself along with a statement explaining his condition. There has been intense speculation over his absence and hospitalization in recent weeks, especially after the incident. reported He said emergency services responded to a cardiac arrest at his home.

McConnell, a polio survivor, has tried to put aside speculation about his health.

“[L]”I had a fall last month and was hospitalized as a result,” McConnell told his constituents. “My doctors have confirmed that I did not break any bones or suffer a concussion. I didn’t have a heart attack or stroke. I don’t have any tumor or bleeding. However, I was unconscious for a short time and was taken to hospital.”

The former Senate GOP leader said he “also had to deal with a mild case of pneumonia” while he was in the hospital.

McConnell is the longest-serving party leader in Senate history. At the beginning of this Congress, he resigned his leadership post, turning the reins over to Sen. John Thune, R.S.D.

Last week, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear demanded that McConnell provide an update on his health and readiness to serve after the senator’s office offered infrequent updates on his condition during his hospitalization, leaving confusing questions about his condition.

McConnell said in a statement that he is fit to serve but will not return to the Senate yet.

“As disappointing as I am, this process takes time. And on the advice of my doctors, I will not be able to return to the Senate floor yet to vote,” he said. “But rest assured, in the meantime, I am not interrupting the Senate business that is important to you. I am working closely on topical issues with my legislative staff and my Kentucky team, who help me deliver timely constituent services across the State.”

McConnell will retire at the end of his term next year.