McConnell Returns to Senate After Three-Month Absence

Senator Mitch McConnell returned to the U.S. Senate on Monday, September 14, 2026, ending a three-month absence that began after a fall at his Washington home. The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican arrived in a wheelchair and cast his first vote since June 14, signaling his intention to resume legislative duties while continuing his recovery. McConnell stated he is not yet fully recovered and will continue physical therapy. In a statement, he said, "My recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven't made it any easier. 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." His return followed a hospitalization on June 14 after he was found briefly unconscious following a fall. He was also treated for mild pneumonia. After hospital care, McConnell spent time in a rehabilitation facility before being discharged on August 6 to continue recovery at home.