Capitol Physician’s Update on McConnell’s Health Following Tests
Capitol Physician Releases Statement on McConnell’s Health After Running Tests
The health episodes of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell have sparked concerns about his well-being, but according to Capitol physician Brian P. Monahan, there is “no evidence” of a stroke or seizure disorder. Monahan’s letter, released by McConnell’s office, provided limited explanation for the recent freeze-ups that have raised questions about the 81-year-old’s condition.
Last week, McConnell experienced another freeze-up during a press conference in Kentucky, where he was unable to respond to a question. This incident followed a similar episode a month prior.
“There is no evidence that you have a seizure disorder or that you experienced a stroke, TIA or movement disorder such as Parkinson’s disease,” Monahan wrote.
The assessments conducted by Monahan included a brain MRI imaging and consultations with multiple neurologists. These evaluations were prompted by McConnell’s fall and concussion earlier this year.
“There are no changes recommended in treatment protocols as you continue recovery from your March 2023 fall,” the doctor stated.
Following last week’s freeze-up, McConnell was cleared by the attending physician to proceed with his planned schedule. He arrived at the Capitol office on Tuesday.
While the episodes have raised concerns among Republican senators and sparked intense speculation in Washington about McConnell’s ability to lead, many of his allies have rallied behind him. Rivals have refrained from directly challenging his leadership.
McConnell is expected to address the Senate as it resumes its fall activities, including the crucial task of approving funding to prevent a government shutdown by the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30.
Some House Republicans have expressed willingness to shut down the government if they are unable to implement significant spending restrictions.
As a leading Senate Republican, McConnell is seen by the White House and Democrats as a potentially more pragmatic negotiator who prioritizes avoiding a politically damaging government shutdown. He has also made it a priority to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
Since his concussion in March, McConnell’s health has visibly declined. He has spoken more haltingly and moved more slowly and cautiously.
Having been first elected in 1984, McConnell became the longest-serving Senate party leader in January. The question that prompted his recent freeze-up was about his plans for re-election in 2026.
Despite these health concerns, McConnell had maintained an active political schedule in Kentucky, frequently engaging with the public and the press. Prior to his freeze-up last week, he delivered a 20-minute speech without any issues.
Similarly, when he froze up during a press conference at the Capitol last month, McConnell took a short break in his office and then returned to answer several more questions and engage in banter with the press.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
The post Capitol Physician Releases Statement on McConnell’s Health After Running Tests appeared first on The Western Journal.
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