Mitch McConnell returns to US Senate after three-month absence | US Midterm Elections 2026 News
Senator Mitch McConnell Returns to Congress, Casts First Vote Since June
Published: September 15, 2026
United States Senator Mitch McConnell made his return to Congress on Monday, casting his first vote since being hospitalized three months ago after a fall at his Washington home. His absence had raised concerns about his capacity to fulfill his duties.
“I must admit, after decades of dodging your questions, I wasn’t sure how many of you would be here today. But I’m glad to see you. It’s time to get back to work and finish the job for this Congress,” McConnell told reporters outside the Senate chamber.
The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican’s extended disappearance from public view had prompted numerous inquiries within the Republican Party regarding his health. However, in a statement on social media, he confirmed his return.
“Today, I’ll cast my first Senate vote since I took a bad fall back in June. I’m really looking forward to being back on the Senate floor and seeing my colleagues,” he wrote on X.
McConnell noted that he is “not quite back to 100%,” acknowledging that lingering effects from his childhood polio have complicated his recovery. Nevertheless, he assured his peers that he would strive to be present for critical votes “when our conference needs me.”
His absence had become a source of concern among Republicans, given that the party holds a slim 53-47 majority in the Senate. During his absence, Democrats took advantage, passing a resolution against President Donald Trump’s military actions in Iran with the support of four Republican senators who broke ranks with their party.
McConnell, the longest-serving Senate leader in U.S. history, announced earlier this year that he would not seek an eighth term. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has raised questions about McConnell’s ability to complete his current term, which is set to expire in January 2027.
