2 weeks Ago
WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen.
Mitch McConnell sustained another fall Wednesday, according to ABC News. McConnell fell on steps at the Capitol Building and was helped up by fellow senators. Sen.
Steve Daines confirmed to ABC News he assisted the 82-year-old former Republican leader in getting back to his feet. “I was right behind him and I helped him get back up and he walked on his own power to lunch,” Daines said. A McConnell spokesperson told WHAS11 the senator is fine.
“The lingering effects of polio in his left leg will not disrupt his regular schedule of work," the spokesperson said. McConnell is a polio survivor whose ability to walk was impaired by the illness. The senator attended the entirety of the near hour and a half long GOP lunch during which senators described him as being an “engaged” participant.
After the lunch, McConnell was escorted out by a swath of staffers, at least one of whom he appeared to be clutching for support. A few minutes later he was spotted exiting the office in a wheelchair, according to reports from ABC News. A McConnell spokesperson said the use of a wheelchair was "purely as a precautionary measure.
" ABC News said the exit came after reports surfaced that McConnell took a second fall during the lunch, though no senator ABC News spoke to was willing to confirm the second fall. In December, McConnell sustained a cut to his face and a sprained wrist after falling during a Senate Republican lunch. A fall in March 2023 resulted in a prolonged absence from the Senate after the senator sustained a concussion and fractured rib.
He was hospitalized and missed six weeks on Capitol Hill. McConnell, who turns 83 later this month, also experienced two episodes in 2023 where he appeared to freeze up for several seconds while speaking at a podium in front of television cameras. McConnell announced in February 2024 he was stepping down from his leadership role in the Senate.
His term expires Jan. 3, 2027. He has represented Kentucky in the Senate since 1985.
Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the WHAS11 News app now. For Apple or Android users.
Have a news tip? Email [email protected] , visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed ..
