Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has been recovering from a concussion and fractured rib from a fall earlier this month. The 81-year-old Republican Senator has now returned home from inpatient physical therapy and will be working from home for the next few days while the Senate is in break. McConnell, who is the longest-serving Senate leader, had been hospitalized after the incident for five days following a private dinner in Washington on March 8. His accident follows a shoulder fracture he sustained in 2017 after tripping and falling on his home, and a bout with polio in his early childhood.
In a statement, McConnell expressed his appreciation for all the kind wishes and added that he would be in frequent touch with his Senate colleagues and staff. He will consult with his physical therapists on a return date to the Senate after the two-week recess over Easter and Passover holidays. Republican senators have been in contact with McConnell's office during his absence, and he spoke to members of his leadership team last week.
The Senate Minority Leader's accident has been a reminder of the physical challenges that could come with age, yet McConnell has demonstrated resilience and determination to stay in touch with his senators and work from home while recovering. His commitment to the Senate and to his constituents is an admirable example of leadership and public service.