McConnell says he was "briefly unconscious," had pneumonia in health update

Senator Mitch McConnell has released a statement addressing his recent health concerns, revealing he was "briefly unconscious" and has been dealing with a "mild case of pneumonia." The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican, hospitalized since June 14, assured the public that his doctors have ruled out serious conditions such as broken bones, concussion, heart attack, or stroke.

McConnell stated that while receiving excellent care, he also had to manage the pneumonia. He is currently in a rehabilitation center to regain strength, with his medical team working to determine the cause of the incident. He expressed his commitment to recovery and to completing his term in the Senate.

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My doctors have confirmed that I didn't break any bones or suffer a concussion. I didn't have a heart attack or a stroke. I don't have any tumors or hemorrhages. But I was briefly unconscious and was taken to the hospital. While receiving excellent care over the past several weeks, I've also had to deal with a mild case of pneumonia.

Despite not yet being cleared to return to vote, McConnell affirmed he has been working with his staff and colleagues. He reiterated his decision to retire at the end of his term in January, citing the demands of Senate work, but emphasized his intention to finish the business he was elected to do.

The senator's office confirmed he remains hospitalized for physical therapy to reduce the risk of future falls. McConnell, a polio survivor, has experienced several health scares in recent years, including a concussion and apparent freezing episodes in 2023, and minor injuries from a fall in 2024.

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You're right to expect your representatives to work hard for you. And part of my decision to retire at the end of my term this coming January was being honest about the demands of Senate work. But I still have unfinished business to complete on your behalf, and I have every intention of finishing the job you elected me to do.