Sen. Mitch McConnell Hospitalized with Flu-like Symptoms

Senator Mitch McConnell, representing Kentucky, was admitted to a hospital Monday night after experiencing flu-like symptoms, as reported by a spokesperson for the former Senate majority leader on Tuesday.

David Popp, McConnell’s spokesman, noted that the senator is receiving treatment at a local hospital and assured that his “prognosis is good.” At 83 years old, McConnell missed votes on both Monday and Tuesday. Popp mentioned, “Senator McConnell developed flu-like symptoms over the weekend, so out of an abundance of caution, he was admitted to a local hospital last night for testing. He is in regular contact with his staff and looks forward to returning to his Senate work.”

However, Popp did not specify when McConnell might return to Washington.

McConnell has encountered a number of health issues over the past few years. Notably, in October 2025, he fell in the basement of the Russell Senate Office Building while reporters were attempting to ask questions, blocking his access to the railing. A polio survivor from childhood, he has been known to walk unsteadily, but there has been a noticeable decline in his strength over the last year. He is often seen being assisted around the Capitol by his security team.

Having started his Senate career in 1985, McConnell has announced plans to retire in December 2024 after nearly two decades of leading Senate Republicans. He shared in February 2025 that he would not seek another term once his current term ends in January 2027.

Despite stepping down from Republican leadership, McConnell continues to chair the influential Senate Rules Committee. Recently, a conservative Republican group reached out, asking him to schedule a markup on the SAVE Act. This election integrity bill is considered a priority for the party base, proposing that proof of citizenship be required to vote in federal elections.