Mitch McConnell, 84, Speaks With John Thune and John Barrasso From Hospital

Sen. Mitch McConnell, 84, was hospitalized on June 14 after emergency medical services were dispatched to his Washington residence for an “unconscious person” and “cardiac arrest,” with “CPR in progress” reported on the audio.

McConnell’s office said on July 7 that “The Senator continues to improve, and is working closely with his staff on Kentucky and Senate matters while the Senate is out of session,” as Republicans described his recovery through phone calls.

ABC News

ABC News reported that Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Republican Whip John Barrasso both spoke with McConnell recently, with Thune’s spokesperson saying their conversation covered “national security.”

ABC News also said Barrasso’s spokesperson Kate Noyes described a 20-minute call that included “the need to pass the NDAA and confirm President Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence.”

As McConnell remained hospitalized for more than three weeks with his office releasing few details about his diagnosis, GOP leaders and allies said they had spoken with him by phone to counter speculation.

ABC News quoted a McConnell spokesperson saying, “Senator McConnell appreciates the outpouring of support he's receiving while he continues his recovery in the hospital,” while also noting that McConnell’s team had not provided information about his diagnosis.

ABC News

Scott Jennings, a conservative political commentator, posted on X that he spoke with McConnell for nearly 20 minutes and wrote, “I told him we want to see him back at work as soon as possible.”

In contrast, the New York Post reported that right-wing firebrand Laura Loomer prompted speculation by posting that McConnell was “brain dead,” after referencing the EMS dispatch calls that showed he was “unconscious.”

With the Senate recessed on June 24 and lawmakers returning to Washington on July 13, McConnell’s ability to resume his role remains uncertain as his office said he was “out of session” while he recovered.

“Senate Republican leaders say they've spoken to Mitch McConnell as he remains hospitalized McConnell's team has not provided any information about his diagnosis”

ABC News

USA Today said it was “up in the air if he will be able to resume his role as a senator when the chamber reconvenes for votes July 13,” while also noting he stepped down in 2024 as Republican leader and is not seeking reelection at the end of his term.

ABC News reported that Barrasso’s spokesperson said the call included the Senate’s July work period and “the need to pass the NDAA and confirm President Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence.”

The New York Post added that Republicans said their 53-47 majority wouldn’t be imperiled should McConnell be unable to finish his term in January 2026, since a special election would follow if needed.