McConnell Gives Rare Health Update And Releases New Photo - Forbes

What the report says

Forbes reported that Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Kentucky Republican and former Senate leader, remains in a rehabilitation facility and has not been medically cleared to leave after a fall and pneumonia. The update, issued a little more than six weeks after his hospitalization, included a statement from his attending physician saying McConnell is receiving intensive physical therapy aimed at rebuilding strength and lowering the chance of future falls. The doctor also said McConnell’s childhood polio remains an important factor affecting his mobility.

McConnell’s office released a new photo it said was taken July 26 showing the senator with his wife, Elaine Chao. Forbes said the update follows an earlier statement and hospital photo that were released amid speculation about his extended absence from the Senate. A spokesperson, David Popp, told the Washington Post, in reporting cited by Forbes, that McConnell has continued meeting with staff on Senate and Kentucky matters.

The health update also confirmed McConnell will miss the Fancy Farm Picnic, a major Kentucky political event scheduled for Saturday. Forbes reported that his absence makes it unlikely he will attend Tuesday funeral services for his longtime ally Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina.

Forbes, citing CNN, said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear sent McConnell a letter seeking more information about his health or urging him to resign. The letter reportedly questioned whether the medical statement addressed McConnell’s ability to speak, reason and perform Senate duties. McConnell, 84, is set to retire at the end of the year after 42 years in the Senate and has faced multiple health episodes in recent years, including falls and moments when he froze while speaking to reporters.