McConnell’s Hospitalisation Fuels Speculation Over Return to Senate

US Senate Republican Mitch McConnell, 84, has been hospitalized since mid-June with few details released; his prolonged absence has raised questions about when or if he will return to work, potentially affecting the GOP's narrow 53-47 majority and shaping debates on defence funding and other legislation. McConnell’s office says he’s receiving excellent care and staying involved with staff, and he plans to leave office at the end of his term in January 2027, which could trigger a Kentucky special election if he departs early.