US Senator Mitch McConnell, 81, freezes again in the middle of a news conference

The Republican leader in the US Senate, Mitch McConnell, raised serious concerns about his health, Wednesday, August 30, 2023, by being the victim of a long moment of absence in the middle of a press conference, for the second time in a month.

While traveling in his home state of Kentucky, Senator McConnell, 81, appeared paralyzed for about thirty seconds, unable to answer a question from a journalist. He has just been questioned about his desire to run again in 2026.

Read also: Too old for a second term, Joe Biden? “I feel good,” he replies.

“instant shock”

“Senator McConnell felt momentarily dizzy and paused during his press conference.” His spokesman L. saidFrance Press agency. He informed those around him that he would consult a doctor before his next public meeting.

In response to a question about the condition of Mitch McConnell, President Joe Biden indicated that “I’ll try to talk to him in the afternoon.”. “We had political differences, but he is a good friend.”said the 80-year-old leader.

Read also: Joe Biden falls on stage during a US military ceremony

The undisputed Republican leader in the Senate

The Republican tenor had already witnessed a very similar incident on July 26, where he froze for no reason in the middle of a Capitol press conference, before his entourage called him into hiding.

Mitch McConnell, the undisputed Republican leader in the Senate since 2015, found himself on the front line of the struggle against the policies of the administration of Democratic President Barack Obama (2009-2017), but also in support of Donald Trump who came to power. Authority in January 2017.

In March, the octogenarian senator was taken to the hospital after collapsing during a private dinner, resulting in a concussion, a broken rib, and about six weeks off work.

Read also: Donald Trump will be sentenced starting March 4, 2024 for his actions during the 2020 presidential election.

Old age rule?

This incident revived criticism of the aging of the American political class, which is sometimes described as an aging government. The case of Senator Dianne Feinstein, 90, has also sparked a debate about the age at which elected officials should relinquish their seats. The apparent decline in the cognitive abilities of this respected figure raises doubts about his ability to carry out his duties.

“We must address the serious problems associated with the aging and/or mental health of our leaders.”Trump-elected official Marjorie Taylor Greene denounced Wednesday, resharing a video of the moment Mitch McConnell was absent.