August 30, 2023: For the second time in less than two months, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell stumbled over his words on Wednesday, prompting questions about his health.
At a Kentucky event, the 81-year-old Republican was questioned about seeking reelection in 2026. He appeared to begin an answer before quickly freezing and going silent for seven seconds.
An identical event occurred to McConnell during a press conference in Washington, D.C., in July. He was led away from the microphones by his Republican colleagues in both instances.
McConnell’s office has yet to answer multiple health questions this summer. A McConnell aide said he would consult a physician before his next event.
Earlier in the day, McConnell spoke fluently about a possible government shutdown and short-term spending deal.
President Joe Biden promised to contact McConnell after hearing about the event just before going on the record to discuss the federal response to Hurricane Idalia.
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell has experienced health concerns this year, raising questions about his well-being. In March, he suffered a concussion and fractured rib after a fall at a Washington hotel.
McConnell returned to the Senate after a few weeks of treatment. More recently, in late July, he momentarily froze for 30 seconds during a news conference, attributed to feeling lightheaded and dehydrated. However, McConnell assured reporters that he was fine.
Following the incident on Wednesday, McConnell and his deputy, Senate Republican Whip John Thune, spoke. Thune’s spokesman confirmed that McConnell sounded like his usual self and was in good spirits.
President Joe Biden intended to reach McConnell, emphasizing their friendship despite political disagreements. Biden stated that he considers McConnell a good friend and plans to contact him later in the afternoon.
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