Senator Mitch McConnell has been discharged from a rehabilitation facility and will continue his physical therapy at home, with plans to finish his final Senate term after an upcoming recess.
| PULSE POINTS |
❓ WHAT HAPPENED: Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) reports that he has been discharged from a rehabilitation facility but will continue physical therapy at home rather than immediately return to Congress. The 84-year-old has faced pressure to resign after weeks of speculation about his health and his ability to fulfill his congressional duties. 💬 KEY QUOTE: “Elaine and I are grateful for the many well wishes and support from friends, colleagues, and Kentuckians, and for the attentive care I’ve received from excellent doctors, nurses, therapists, and hospital staff,” McConnell said in a statement issued Thursday. 🎯 IMPACT: McConnell, who will not seek reelection in November, intends to return to the Senate to complete his final term, but is unlikely to resume his duties before the August recess. Republicans have nominated Representative Andy Barr (R-KY) as his successor for the upcoming election. 📺 DETAIL: McConnell’s decision not to seek reelection opens a new chapter for the Republican leadership, which McConnell had dominated for almost two decades, becoming the longest-serving Senate party leader in American history. He stepped down as GOP leader in the Senate only in January 2025, shortly before his longtime rival President Donald J. Trump’s second term began. He has often voted against the Trump administration’s agenda since the President returned to office, helping the Democrats to delay or block key appointments and legislative initiatives. |
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