Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) experienced a second episode of trembling while addressing reporters on Wednesday.
When asked if he would compete for reelection in 2026, the 81-year-old McConnell blanked out and lost his composure during a press conference in Covington, Kentucky.
McConnell stood motionless with his eyes wide open when an aide came over and inquired if he had heard the question. After a brief period of time, McConnell seemed to regain his composure, and the aide attempted to resume the news conference. However, it became quickly apparent that McConnell was unwell enough to continue.
Thomas shared a further video of the press conference, in which the assistant could be seen shouting the questions of two reporters into McConnell’s ear. At the same time, she stood next to him, and McConnell could hardly answer coherently in return until the woman abruptly ended the presser.
McConnell also experienced a similar happening on July 26, when he became unresponsive during a Senate press conference. The senator was led away from the podium but eventually came back and answered questions from the media.
Here’s more of what we saw at the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Government Forum. Hoping Sen. McConnell is able to take some time to rest @WLWT pic.twitter.com/wU91yTIDZk— Hannah Thomas (@HannahPThomas) August 30, 2023
The said event in July happened when McConnell was introducing the yearly defense-authorization measure. He paused after saying there had been “good bipartisan cooperation, and a string of…” for more than 20 seconds and then continued.
Senator Joni Ernst asked if he felt fine. Senator John Barrasso, an orthopedic surgeon before serving in Congress, grabbed his arm and asked if there were any other things McConnell would like to add or if he wants to return to his office.
He also added if Senator McConnell would like to address the media in any other ways instead. However, McConnell mouthed “no” while Senator John Thune continued the press conference, and Barasso and his staff led him away.
McConnell won his first Senate election in 1984. His history of ill health began with polio as a child, leaving him limp.
Leader McConnell felt temporarily dizzy and paused during his press conference today, according to McConnell’s spokesperson.
An aide added that McConnell “feels fine” and that, as a precautionary measure, the leader will be visiting a medical professional ahead of his next appearance.
