Beshear gives McConnell an ultimatum: prove you can serve or resign

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear sent letters to Mitch McConnell and Senate Leader John Thune demanding McConnell publicly prove he can fulfill his Senate duties or resign, and signaling he may push to replace him. The move comes after McConnell’s hospitalization and limited public appearances. Thune said the issue is between McConnell and Kentucky, while Kentucky law requires a special election—not an appointment—to fill the seat. McConnell has said he plans to retire at the end of 2026, and Rep. Andy Barr won the GOP primary to succeed him.