WASHINGTON — Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. has been discharged from a rehabilitation center after a nearly eight-week medical absence, he announced Thursday. He will continue his recovery at home through the remainder of the Senate's August recess.
McConnell's leave began after a fall in mid-June that required hospitalization. He transferred to a rehabilitation facility, where he spent close to two months in intensive care.
In a statement, McConnell thanked "friends, colleagues, and Kentuckians" for their well wishes and credited the medical staff at the rehabilitation center for their "attentive care."
McConnell's extended absence pulled one of the Senate's most experienced tacticians from daily legislative and strategic discussions. His command of Senate rules and caucus strategy has long made him a central figure in Republican deliberations, and colleagues noticed the gap — particularly on procedural questions and negotiations where his institutional knowledge is difficult to replace.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D. and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. guided the chamber's agenda during his absence. Committee hearings and floor votes proceeded as scheduled.
Because his discharge coincides with the August recess, McConnell will not return to the Capitol immediately. When the Senate reconvenes, he is expected to rejoin caucus debates on budget negotiations, judicial nominations and 2026 midterm strategy.
His full return to the Senate floor will depend on his continued recovery.
