Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell returns to Senate, says he wants to get back to 'business as usual'

Jesse Fraga, Lexington Herald-Leader on Sep 14, 2026

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Sen. Mitch McConnell confirmed he's returning to the U.S. Senate Monday, returning to the Capitol for the first time since he was hospitalized in June.

The veteran GOP lawmaker was seen in a wheelchair at the Capitol shortly after announcing he would return, photos show.

“Today, I’ll cast my first Senate vote since I took a bad fall back in June,” McConnell said in a statement released by his office Monday. “I’m really looking forward to being back on the Senate floor and seeing my colleagues.”

On behalf of his wife, Elaine Chao, he thanked the state and said he’ll get back to “business as usual.”

“Elaine and I are very grateful for all the continued well wishes from our fellow Kentuckians, and I’m glad to get back to more of business as usual on their behalf this month.”

McConnell, 84, was hospitalized June 14. His office shared July 27 that he was being treated for a fall and slight case of pneumonia. After his hospitalization he went to a rehabilitation center, where he was discharged Aug. 6 so he could continue his recovery and physical therapy at home.

Kentucky’s senior senator said he is still not feeling up to par but will be present for important matters, such as the annual farm bill. He’d advocated for agricultural policies that align with this farm bill, which has faced obstacles up to this point in Congress, particularly amid McConnell’s absence.

The Senate Agriculture Committee held its markup of the farm bill in August, but failed to pass it out of committee. The GOP did not have enough support without McConnell’s vote or backing from Democrats.

The bill would expand Kentucky’s small and local meat processors and veterinary access, among other initiatives.

McConnell’s office said he informed Senate Majority Leader John Thune about his expected increased presence in voting on legislation.

“My recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven’t made it any easier,” he said. “I’m still not quite back to 100%, but I’ve assured Leader Thune that, as I continue with physical therapy on the advice of my doctors, I will do my best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me.”

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