On Wednesday, 81-year-old Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnel (R-KY) froze up again while answering questions. During a press conference in Covington, Kentucky, McConnell became unresponsive and appeared disconnected when questioned about his running in the 2026 reelection. An aide approached McConnell, asked if he had heard the question, while he remained motionless with wide-open eyes. After a brief pause, McConnell seemed to recover, and the aide attempted to resume the press conference. However, it soon became apparent that McConnell was not well enough to continue.
In March, McConnell experienced a fall that resulted in a concussion and a fractured bone. Following the incident, he was admitted to a hospital and underwent a period of rehabilitation before making his return to the Senate in mid-April.
A video of the incident was shared by WLWT-TV reporter Hannah Thomas.
BREAKING NEWS: Sen. Mitch McConnell appearing to have another scary episode in the media gaggle in Covington today. Aides had to step in to help him out and repeat questions. He was eventually lead away. We'll have the full video on @WLWT pic.twitter.com/q9ex5MHxLV
— Hannah Thomas (@HannahPThomas) August 30, 2023
In another clip, the aide can be seen shouting to repeat two reporters’ questions directly into McConnell’s ear. In response, McConnell struggled to speak coherently, and the aide eventually decided to cut the press conference short.
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
On July 26, McConnell froze up during a Senate press conference.
That time, he was able to resume answering questions after taking a break.
Watch:
BREAKING NOW: Mitch McConnell glitches, freezing mid speech at Senate press conference, is escorted from podium by his handlers. pic.twitter.com/zojrvBvZXX
— Breaking Digest (@breaking_digest) July 26, 2023
It’s clearly time for Mitch McConnel to call it quits.
According to CNN’s Manu Raju, “McConnell spokesman: “Leader McConnell felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today.” An aide also said that McConnell “feels fine” and “as a prudential measure, the leader will be consulting a physician prior to his next event.””
McConnell spokesman: “Leader McConnell felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today.”
— Manu Raju (@mkraju) August 30, 2023
An aide also said that McConnell “feels fine” and “as a prudential measure, the leader will be consulting a physician prior to his next event.” https://t.co/b5cmoBXSPm
