McConnell Freezes During July 2023 Press Conference
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has once again raised concerns about his fitness to lead the Senate Republican caucus. During a press conference in Covington, Kentucky, McConnell appeared to freeze for about 30 seconds after a reporter asked him if he planned to run for reelection in 2026. McConnell had to ask the reporter to repeat the question multiple times before chuckling momentarily and then pausing, closing his mouth, and staring straight ahead.
An aide at McConnell’s side then asked him if he had heard the question, to which McConnell did not respond. The aide told reporters, “I’m sorry, we’re gonna need a minute.” McConnell was seen speaking quietly to a member of his detail for a moment before turning back to reporters and saying, “Okay.” His aide then asked if anyone had another question and requested that reporters speak up.
A spokesman for McConnell stated that the 81-year-old Republican leader “felt momentarily lightheaded and paused” during the press conference. As a precautionary measure, McConnell will be consulting with a physician before his next event.
Concerns about McConnell’s health have been ongoing this year. In March, he was treated for a concussion and fractured rib after a fall at a hotel in Washington. He returned to the Senate several weeks later. In late July, McConnell froze for 30 seconds during a news conference on Capitol Hill. At the time, his office attributed it to lightheadedness and dehydration. McConnell himself insisted that he was fine.
President Joe Biden expressed his intention to reach out to McConnell, saying, “Mitch is a friend, as you know. We have disagreements politically, but he’s a good friend.” Biden mentioned that he plans to get in touch with McConnell later that afternoon.
The incident has raised additional questions about McConnell’s ability to continue leading the Senate Republican caucus. As the leader since 2007, McConnell’s health has been a topic of concern for many. With another episode of freezing during a press conference, doubts about his fitness to lead are likely to persist.