Frail McConnell returns to Senate after three months health absence

Republican Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky returned to the Senate to vote on Monday for the first time in three months, appearing noticeably frail after being hospitalized for a June fall at his home, according to a report by AP News.

McConnell’s lengthy absence had sparked criticism and speculation, as he stayed quiet for weeks before disclosing he was briefly unconscious from the fall and was treated for mild pneumonia. Speaking slowly from a wheelchair outside the Senate chamber, the 84-year-old joked about dodging reporters during his time as leader, saying he returned to work on a pending farm bill and to support NATO allies against Russia.

In a statement, McConnell admitted he was “still not quite back to 100%” and cited lingering effects of childhood polio complicating his recovery.

McConnell, the longest-serving Senate leader in history, is retiring in January after four decades in office. Republicans have nominated Rep. Andy Barr to replace him, while Democrats have nominated Charles Booker. His return could help the GOP advance legislation on cryptocurrency regulation and college sports.