Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell returned to the Senate on Monday for the first time since being hospitalized following a fall in June. McConnell, arriving in a wheelchair, spoke briefly with journalists outside the chamber before heading inside to cast his first vote since June 11. Today marks my first Senate vote since taking a bad fall back in June, McConnell said in a statement. I am really looking forward to being back on the Senate floor and seeing my colleagues. Addressing reporters, McConnell joked about dodging their questions for years and stated it is time to get back to work and finish the job for this Congress. He noted that his immediate focus will include the farm bill, which had previously failed to advance out of committee during his absence. Additionally, McConnell reiterated his ongoing interest in supporting NATO and backing allies fighting against Russia. While addressing his health, the senator acknowledged that he is not yet fully recovered. My recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven’t made it any easier, McConnell said. I’m still not quite back to 100%, but I’ve assured Leader Thune that, as I continue with physical therapy on the advice of my doctors, I will do my best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me. McConnell was hospitalized on June 14 after suffering a fall. Following weeks of inpatient rehabilitation, he transitioned to recovering at home on August 6. Before his return on September 14, 2026, the senator had missed six weeks of legislative business in Washington, though he maintained communication with staff and colleagues regarding Senate matters throughout his convalescence.
Source: abcnews.com
