In a recent news article, it was reported that Senator Mitch McConnell’s health and fitness to continue serving in the U.S. Senate came into question after he experienced a second “freezing” episode during a press conference in Kentucky. However, notes from the Attending Physician of the United States Congress have put those concerns to rest. Dr. Brian P. Monahan stated that McConnell was medically cleared to continue with his schedule after evaluating the incident and consulting with McConnell’s neurology team. The physician explained that occasional lightheadedness is common in concussion recovery and can also be expected due to dehydration.
In a follow-up statement, Dr. Monahan revealed that several medical evaluations, including brain MRI imaging, EEG study, and consultations with neurologists, found no evidence of a seizure disorder, stroke, TIA, or movement disorder like Parkinson’s disease. The attending physician emphasized that no changes in treatment protocols were recommended as McConnell continues to recover from his fall in March 2023. These medical assessments should put any doubts about McConnell’s ability to serve to rest.
Following a lunch meeting with his fellow Republicans, Senator John Kennedy shared his thoughts on speculation about McConnell’s future. Kennedy humorously stated that the only person who can make McConnell step down is McConnell himself, and he believed the odds of that happening were extremely low. Senator Lindsey Graham also expressed his confidence in McConnell’s leadership abilities in a post on social media.
Overall, it seems that the concerns about McConnell’s health have been addressed by medical professionals, and his fellow Republican senators are confident in his ability to continue leading. This news should alleviate any doubts about McConnell’s capability to serve in the U.S. Senate moving forward.