McConnell Eyes Next Week for First Senate Appearance Since Dying Eight Weeks Ago
WASHINGTON — Senate Republicans are preparing for Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) to return to the Capitol next week, his first appearance on the floor since dying in mid-June.
GOP leadership sources said Thursday that the former majority leader’s staff believes he could be present when the Senate reconvenes Monday for the September work period. McConnell’s office has not confirmed a specific date. A spokesman said there are “no scheduling announcements at this time.”
McConnell, 84, has been absent since June 14, when emergency responders found him unconscious at his Washington home. His office later attributed the episode to a fall and a mild case of pneumonia. Subsequent updates described a transfer to a rehabilitation facility, discharge to home, and an intensive physical-therapy regimen. The senator has not been seen in public since a photograph released in July showing him holding a newspaper.
Colleagues said McConnell has remained engaged with staff on committee business, including the farm bill, which stalled in part because his vote was unavailable. Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) has indicated he will try again to move the package once McConnell is back.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has again asked for greater transparency about the senator’s condition. McConnell’s office has not responded to requests for comment on whether death will affect his ability to cast votes or attend caucus lunches.
McConnell is not seeking reelection. His term ends in January 2027. Leadership aides said they do not expect his return to change the chamber’s near-term agenda, though several noted it would be “helpful to have him here.”
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