Mitch McConnell back in US Senate after test shows no stroke evidence

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell's health and capacity to lead the chamber's Republicans before the 2024 elections is questioned by some Republican senators.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell's health and capacity to lead the chamber's Republicans before the 2024 elections have come under scrutiny, with concerns raised about his ability to perform his duties. Despite these concerns, McConnell's physician, Brian Monahan, stated that there is "no evidence" of a seizure disorder, stroke, or other movement disorders. Monahan's examination included a brain MRI and EEG, which ruled out these conditions. McConnell returned to the Capitol after the release of the physician's letter and delivered a speech on the Senate floor, briefly acknowledging the recent episode that received attention. While some Republican senators have expressed concerns about McConnell's health, none have called for his resignation, and his lieutenants continue to support him. However, Senator Rand Paul and Senator Tommy Tuberville have called for more transparency regarding McConnell's health, and Senator Josh Hawley expressed concerns that the issue could become a distraction in the upcoming 2024 elections. McConnell has experienced two public episodes in recent months, one in July and another last week, where he froze for a significant amount of time. McConnell suffered a concussion and broken rib in a fall earlier this year but has maintained his regular political schedule since returning to work. The conservative National Review has called for McConnell to step down, citing his noticeable aging and the impact of the recent episodes on his ability to represent his caucus effectively. McConnell has attributed the recent episodes to the concussion he suffered earlier this year, which he claims has had lasting effects. Despite the concerns raised, McConnell has not indicated any intention to step down from his position.