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Sen. Mitch McConnell returned to the Senate on Monday for the first time in three months, appearing in a wheelchair and acknowledging that he is still recovering from a June fall that led to hospitalization and rehabilitation.
The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican briefly addressed reporters outside the Senate chamber before casting his first vote since June. McConnell said he was ready to return to work, particularly on the farm bill, while continuing physical therapy at home.
“I’m still not quite back to 100%,” McConnell said in a statement before returning to the Capitol. He said he had told Senate Majority Leader John Thune that he would do his best to be present for important votes as he continues his recovery.
McConnell’s Long Absence
McConnell was hospitalized in June after a fall at his Washington-area home that briefly left him unconscious. He later disclosed that he was also treated for mild pneumonia during his hospitalization.
He subsequently spent time in a rehabilitation facility before continuing his recovery at home. A statement from the Capitol physician said McConnell had experienced several falls related to his post-polio condition and that a medical evaluation found no fractures, stroke, cardiac abnormalities, tumor or hemorrhage.
His extended absence generated questions about his health and ability to continue serving. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democrat, publicly called on McConnell to provide information about his capacity to serve or resign.
McConnell has said he intends to complete his Senate term, which ends in January. He is not seeking reelection after more than four decades in the Senate.
Return Could Affect Senate Legislation
McConnell’s return could be significant for several pieces of legislation that stalled during his absence.
Republicans were unable to advance a farm bill out of the Senate Agriculture Committee during the summer. McConnell had attempted to participate in an August committee meeting by proxy, but Senate rules prevented him from casting the votes. The committee is scheduled to take up the legislation again Wednesday.
McConnell also said Monday that he remains focused on strengthening U.S. ties with NATO and supporting efforts against Russian aggression in Ukraine.
His return comes as the Senate faces a crowded fall agenda, including legislation involving cryptocurrency, college sports, government nominees and other policy matters.
Final Months in the Senate
McConnell’s return comes during the final months of a Senate career that began in 1985 and included nearly two decades as Republican leader. He served as both majority and minority leader before stepping down from the leadership last year.
Republicans have nominated Rep. Andy Barr to succeed him, while Democrats have nominated former state lawmaker Charles Booker. The two are competing for McConnell’s seat in the November general election.
McConnell said Monday that his recovery remains ongoing but that he is committed to participating in Senate business when his health permits.
His return does not mean he will be present for every vote. McConnell specifically said he expects to continue physical therapy and will make an effort to attend votes he considers particularly important to the Republican conference.
