McConnell Frustrated by Health Scrutiny, Ally Says

Senator Mitch McConnell is aware of and frustrated by the intense public scrutiny surrounding his health, according to a longtime ally who spoke with him this week. Scott Jennings, a former McConnell adviser and conservative commentator, said the 84-year-old Kentucky senator called him directly on Tuesday to discuss political races and the attention he has received since his hospitalization nearly two months ago.

Jennings shared details of the conversation on CNN, stating that McConnell told him, "I know this is unusual circumstances. I'm sitting here. The doctors tell me I don't have any life-threatening issues. It must seem rather strange." Jennings added that he got the feeling McConnell is "somewhat aware of it and frankly, somewhat frustrated by it."

McConnell was discharged from a rehabilitation facility on Thursday and is continuing his recovery at home. He was first hospitalized on June 14 after a fall at his Washington, D.C., home. After weeks of speculation, his office released a statement on July 12 explaining he was recovering from the fall and a case of pneumonia. Throughout his prolonged absence, both Democrats and Republicans have called for greater transparency...