Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has been hospitalized, according to a statement from his spokesman. The Kentucky Republican was admitted to a hospital on Sunday, though the statement did not specify which facility or disclose the reason for his admission.
McConnell, 82, served as Senate Majority Leader from 2015 to 2021 under the Trump administration and maintained significant influence over Senate Republicans even after Democrats retook the majority. He stepped down from the Republican leadership position in November 2023 following a series of freezing incidents in public that raised questions about his health and fitness for leadership.
The former leader has faced health challenges in recent years. In March 2023, he suffered a fall at a Washington hotel that resulted in a fractured shoulder. He briefly returned to his Senate seat before his freezing episodes prompted concerns from colleagues and party members about his ability to continue in a leadership role.
Despite relinquishing his position as party leader, McConnell retained his Senate seat representing Kentucky, where he has served since 1985. He announced in February 2024 that he would not seek reelection in the fall, effectively ending his political career.
The hospitalization comes as McConnell remains a polarizing figure within Republican politics. He has been criticized by former President Donald Trump and Trump-aligned Republicans over his refusal to embrace certain party positions, particularly regarding the 2020 election results and Trump's legal challenges.
No further details about the nature of his hospitalization or expected duration of his stay have been released. His office did not immediately respond to requests for additional information.