Senator Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.), 82, fell twice on Wednesday while exiting the Senate chamber and later during a private lunch, renewing concerns about his health and the age of the nation's political leadership.
McConnell, a childhood polio survivor and former Senate Republican leader, first stumbled on a small set of stairs after voting to confirm Housing and Urban Development Secretary nominee Scott Turner. Senators Steve Daines (R., Mont.) and Markwayne Mullin (R., Okla.) quickly assisted him, according to multiple reports.
Later, during a senators-only lunch, McConnell fell again while carrying a plate of food, Punchbowl News reported. The outlet noted that he landed on his side and may have sustained new bruising on his face.
It is unclear whether McConnell suffered any serious injuries. Fox News reported that the senator appeared to be "OK" following the incidents. His office did not immediately provide a comment.
McConnell's falls come after a series of health incidents in recent years. In 2023, he suffered a concussion from a fall at a Washington hotel. That same year, he froze twice during press conferences, abruptly stopping mid-sentence before being escorted away. Aides later attributed those episodes to lightheadedness.
He also reportedly fell while deplaning at Reagan National Airport in 2023, marking at least three known falls that year. In December, McConnell appeared unsteady upon returning to the Senate, gripping an aide's arm and sporting a bandage on his cheek.
