Mitch McConnell returned to the US Senate on Monday for the first time since being hospitalised after a fall in June, taking his place in Washington as he continues to recover and prepares to cast his first vote in almost three months.
The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican arrived at the Capitol in a wheelchair and spoke briefly to reporters before entering the chamber. His return came after weeks away from public view, during which he underwent hospital treatment, rehabilitation and intensive physical therapy.
McConnell said he was not yet fully recovered but intended to attend important votes when Republican leaders needed him.
“My recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven’t made it any easier,” he said in a statement. “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.”
Mitch McConnell returns to Senate after three-month absence
McConnell was taken to hospital on June 14 after falling at his home. He later said he had been briefly unconscious and had also been treated for a mild case of pneumonia.
He was subsequently moved to a rehabilitation centre before being discharged to continue his recovery at home. The Office of the Attending Physician said in July that childhood polio remained a significant factor in his mobility and that therapy was intended to rebuild his strength and reduce the risk of further falls.
Before Monday’s return, McConnell said he would maintain an intensive programme of physical therapy while continuing to work with his staff and colleagues on Senate business.
His prolonged absence had affected Republican efforts to advance legislation, including a farm bill that failed to clear committee while he and another Republican senator were absent. His return could provide party leaders with an important vote as they seek to move forward with stalled measures.
McConnell, who led Senate Republicans for 18 years, is serving the final months of his political career and has said he is determined to complete his term. He is due to leave office in January after four decades in national politics.
