Overview
- Rep. James Comer told reporters that McConnell’s staff “fully expect” the senator to return when the Senate reconvenes on Sept. 14, but Comer said he has not spoken with McConnell directly.
- A McConnell spokesperson told CNN there were no scheduling announcements, creating a direct contradiction between the senator’s office and Comer’s description of staff expectations.
- McConnell, 84, was hospitalized after a June 14 fall, spent weeks in a hospital and a rehabilitation facility, was discharged to continue therapy at home in early August, and has not cast a vote since June 11.
- Public figures from Kentucky’s governor to Fox commentators have stepped up calls for transparency or for McConnell to step down if he cannot resume duties, and some reports that he was found unconscious and given CPR have not been officially confirmed.
- McConnell is not seeking reelection so his remaining months in the seat matter most to Senate vote math and confirmation fights, leaving colleagues and voters watching for either a documented return or a formal resignation.