(RightIsRight.co) – During an interview with CBS News, 81-year-old Senator Mitch McConnell from Kentucky addressed recent concerns regarding his health. This came in the wake of two instances where he appeared unresponsive for short periods while addressing the public.
On “Face the Nation,” moderator Margaret Brennan asked McConnell about any health issues the public should know about. In response, McConnell said, “I’m in good shape – completely recovered and back on the job,” alluding to his hospitalization months ago due to a concussion sustained from a fall at a dinner event in D.C. in March. He re-emphasized his well-being, claiming, “I’m fine. I’m completely recovered, and I’m just fine,” and confirmed he is actively working.
Brennan pointed out that McConnell’s office had proactively disclosed details about his health following some of these episodes. She noted, “… the doctor here said there was no evidence of Parkinson’s disease, or a stroke, or a seizure.” When she pressed further, asking if there was any undisclosed information the public should know, McConnell reiterated that he was completely recovered and mentally and physically fit to fulfill his six-year term.
McConnell has a long tenure as a Kentucky senator, beginning in 1985. Over the years, he’s also held significant leadership positions in the Senate. Despite his accomplishments and long service, his recent moments of silence during public addresses have raised concerns. After a noticeable pause in a press event in July, he had to be assisted away from the podium. Another similar incident occurred a month later, raising further questions. However, McConnell received strong backing from his GOP Senate peers, reinforcing their confidence in his ability to continue serving.
Public concern about McConnell’s health isn’t new. In 2019, after tripping on his patio in Kentucky, David Popp, Communications Director for Mitch McConnell, stated, “This morning, Leader McConnell tripped at home on his outside patio and suffered a fractured shoulder.” He further confirmed that McConnell received treatment and was working from his Louisville home.
McConnell, who triumphed over polio as a child, has been candid about his health struggles. He shared in a 2020 AP interview that the aftermath of the illness made climbing stairs challenging for him even as an adult.
