McConnell Returns to Senate for First Vote Since June Fall

Sen. Mitch McConnell returned to the Senate on Sept. 14 for his first floor vote since a June 14 fall that led to hospitalization, rehabilitation and months of physical therapy. The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican said his recovery has been difficult, partly because of lingering effects of childhood polio, and acknowledged that he is not yet fully recovered. He briefly lost consciousness after the fall, later developed pneumonia and left a rehabilitation facility on Aug. 6 to continue recovering at home. His prolonged absence and limited updates from his office prompted public speculation about his health, debate over lawmakers’ medical privacy and calls from Kentucky officials for greater transparency. His return could be important for Senate Republicans’ narrow majority, including efforts to advance a stalled farm bill and other closely contested legislation, though he said he would try to attend difficult votes while continuing treatment. McConnell is not seeking reelection and plans to retire from Senate leadership.