Reports indicate that Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is in good spirits, engaging in conversations over the phone and touching on numerous subjects.
CNN’s Scott Jennings shared that he held a conversation with McConnell, whom he regards as an “old friend,” on Tuesday morning. Their chat spanned close to 20 minutes, addressing an array of topics.
Jennings elaborated, “This morning, I had a conversation with my old friend, Mitch McConnell, the senior Senator from Kentucky, who is still recuperating in the hospital. We conversed for just under 20 minutes, discussing topics such as IRAN, UKRAINE, the ongoing developments in MAINE, my visit to the TR Presidential Library, and even delved into some Senate history.”
Expressing anticipation for McConnell’s return, Jennings remarked, “I told him we’re eager to see him back at work as soon as possible.”
Furthermore, a spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) noted that Thune also engaged in a phone call with McConnell on Monday. The conversation was substantial and included discussions on national security among other significant issues.
These reports veer dramatically from claims made by conservative activist Laura Loomer and journalist Desiree Townsend, both of whom claimed Monday that McConnell had been declared “brain dead,” although they did not provide specific sources. His team responded and adamantly denied the allegations. A spokesperson for McConnell said that on the contrary, the 84-year-old senator continues to improve in the hospital and is working with his staff.
“Senator McConnell appreciates the outpouring of support he’s receiving while he continues his recovery in the hospital,” the spokesperson told – News. “The Senator continues to improve and is working closely with his staff on Kentucky and Senate matters while the Senate is out of session.”
McConnell was admitted to the hospital on June 14, but his specific health condition remains largely a mystery. He has suffered from a concussion as well as falls over the past few years and, infamously, had two inexplicable freeze-ups at the podium.
Notably, McConnell’s wife, former U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, who has ties to China, traveled to Beijing to meet with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng only three days after her husband was rushed to the hospital, her trip raising eyebrows.