Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell experienced another health setback this Tuesday when he fell and sprained his wrist following a GOP luncheon in Washington.
At 82 years old, McConnell’s recent fall adds to a series of health challenges he has faced over the past few years. Reports indicate that while walking alongside Wyoming Senator John Barrasso after a routine party lunch, McConnell tripped and fell. Barrasso, who is also a physician, confirmed that McConnell was alert and able to return to his office independently. Shortly after, medical personnel arrived at his office to provide necessary assistance.
According to McConnell’s office, he sustained a cut on his face and was seen wearing a bandage on his left cheek and a brace on his left wrist afterward. Despite these injuries, McConnell has reportedly been cleared to continue with his schedule. However, he skipped a scheduled press conference immediately after the incident to recuperate.
McConnell’s health has been a subject of public interest following previous incidents that have caused concern. Earlier, in March 2023, he was hospitalized due to a concussion resulting from another fall at a downtown hotel, which led to an absence from Senate activities for several weeks. During the summer, he experienced moments where he froze up during press briefings, needing assistance from his colleagues.
The Senate veteran has acknowledged his lifelong struggle with mobility, partially attributed to a childhood polio diagnosis, which has occasionally resulted in difficulties with walking and stair navigation. His history of falls included a significant incident in 2019 that required surgical intervention after he fractured his shoulder at his Kentucky home.
McConnell, who has served in the Senate since 1984 and led the Republicans since 2007, is set to step down from his leadership role at year’s end. With the Republicans poised to regain the Senate majority, South Dakota Senator John Thune is anticipated to assume the position of Senate majority leader next year.
Mitch McConnell’s recent fall underscores the ongoing challenges he faces with his health as he continues to serve in his longstanding role. With his decision to step down as Senate Republican leader, an era of leadership transitions in the Senate looms on the horizon.
Source: Wsvn
