Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has returned to the U.S. Capitol after three months out of the public eye. The 84-year-old arrived in a wheelchair Monday, telling reporters, “It is time to get back to work.”
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McConnell cast his first Senate vote since he was hospitalized in June after a fall at his Washington home. He voted to advance Matthew Byrne’s nomination to serve as a federal judge in Ohio. The vote was 47-46.
McConnell had not cast a vote since June 11, missing dozens over his 92-day absence. His return coincided with the Senate reconvening after a five-week summer recess.
Back in the public eye
Monday also marked McConnell’s first public appearance since his hospitalization.
He spent nearly a month in the hospital before being transferred to a rehabilitation center in July, where he stayed for almost three weeks. On Aug. 6, his office announced McConnell had been discharged and would continue an “intensive regimen of physical therapy” at home.
His prolonged absence and lack of public appearances led to growing scrutiny over his health.
During his absence, his office released limited written updates on his health, along with two photos of McConnell during his recovery.
In a statement on Monday, McConnell acknowledged he has not fully recovered yet but said he would try to be present for critical votes.
“My recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven’t made it any easier,” the statement read. “I’m still not quite back to 100%, but I’ve assured Leader Thune that, as I continue with physical therapy on the advice of my doctors, I will do my best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me.”
Final months in office
McConnell’s return comes with only a few months left in his Senate career. He announced in February that he would retire at the end of this term after 40 years in the chamber.
McConnell said he plans to spend his final months focused on the farm bill, which failed to advance out of committee during his absence. He also said he would continue pushing for U.S. support for Ukraine.
“As you know, I have an ongoing interest in NATO and backing up our good friends who are totally in the fight against the Russians,” he said Monday.
His return gives Republicans, who hold a 53-47 Senate majority, another available vote.
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