Senate Leader Admitted to Hospital with Flu-Like Symptoms
In a sudden turn of events, Mitch McConnell, the 83-year-old Republican senator from Kentucky, has been hospitalized due to "flu-like symptoms." The news comes as no surprise, given his advanced age and a history of mobility issues. In fact, the 82-year-old polio survivor has struggled with falls and concussions in recent years, including a notable incident at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Washington D.C. in 2023.
McConnell's condition took a turn for the worse over the weekend, prompting him to seek medical attention at a local hospital on Monday night. In a statement, his office confirmed that he was admitted "in an abundance of caution" due to flu-like symptoms and assured the public that his prognosis is positive, citing excellent care from the medical team.
The senator's health issues have been well-documented over the years, with instances of him becoming non-responsive during interviews and requiring assistance in navigating hallways at the Capitol. His recent decision not to seek re-election in 2026 was likely influenced by these concerns.
As one-third of US senators are now over the age of 70, McConnell's condition serves as a reminder of the physical demands placed on lawmakers. With his leadership role in the Senate and history of key judicial appointments, any disruption to his health would have significant implications for Washington D.C.'s politics.
In a sudden turn of events, Mitch McConnell, the 83-year-old Republican senator from Kentucky, has been hospitalized due to "flu-like symptoms." The news comes as no surprise, given his advanced age and a history of mobility issues. In fact, the 82-year-old polio survivor has struggled with falls and concussions in recent years, including a notable incident at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Washington D.C. in 2023.
McConnell's condition took a turn for the worse over the weekend, prompting him to seek medical attention at a local hospital on Monday night. In a statement, his office confirmed that he was admitted "in an abundance of caution" due to flu-like symptoms and assured the public that his prognosis is positive, citing excellent care from the medical team.
The senator's health issues have been well-documented over the years, with instances of him becoming non-responsive during interviews and requiring assistance in navigating hallways at the Capitol. His recent decision not to seek re-election in 2026 was likely influenced by these concerns.
As one-third of US senators are now over the age of 70, McConnell's condition serves as a reminder of the physical demands placed on lawmakers. With his leadership role in the Senate and history of key judicial appointments, any disruption to his health would have significant implications for Washington D.C.'s politics.