It initially appeared that McConnell, 81, missed a question about his views during a meeting in Covington, Kentucky. But it soon became apparent that his health problems were more serious.
Then the senator froze on the podium and did not speak for about 30 seconds. After a while, one of his colleagues approached him, but the politician didn’t seem to show any reaction. “Well, I’m sorry everyone. We’re going to need a moment,” a McConnell staffer said at the time.
McConnell then indicated that he was ready to ask another question. He was asked about Kentucky Republican Attorney General Daniel Cameron, who is running for governor. Then the aide repeated the questions in the senator’s ear. After a moment, McConnell replied, “I think the race for governor is going to be very close,” but his voice was visibly weakening with every word he said. After a while he was taken out of the room.
President Joe Biden, when asked about McConnell during a news conference, said he would contact the senator. “We don’t get along politically, but he’s a good friend,” Biden said.
The Republican leader froze again. The second such incident
Let us remind you that a similar situation occurred earlier this holiday season. House Speaker McConnell was making opening remarks on the annual defense policy bill when he suddenly stopped speaking. He was silent for 19 seconds. His deputy, Senator John Barrasso, a physician, helped the Republican leader leave the meeting.
McConnell’s health problems
March 8 McConnell tripped and fell. He was taken to the hospital with a concussion and a minor rib fracture. He was released from hospital on March 13, but did not return to the Senate until mid-April.
The Republican has served in the upper house of the US Congress since 1985. He may run for re-election in 2026.