Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., is set to return to the Senate floor to cast his first vote since an incident in June that led to months of recovery and speculation about his health. The Senate reconvened Monday after a lengthy break, with McConnell stating his intention to participate in crucial votes.
"I’m really looking forward to being back on the Senate floor and seeing my colleagues," McConnell said in a statement. "My recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven’t made it any easier." He added that while he is "still not quite back to 100%," he has assured Leader Thune that he will "do my best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me."
McConnell, 84, has been absent from Senate votes and committee work since early June following a fall at his Washington, D.C., home. His recovery was further complicated by pneumonia, necessitating a period in rehabilitation.
His return comes as Republicans prepare to vote on a significant farm aid and funding package. The previous attempt to advance this bill faltered, lacking McConnell's key vote. He expressed gratitude for the support he and his wife, Elaine, have received from their constituents in Kentucky.