Sen. McConnell Returns to Congress

By Troy Myers
Troy Myers
Troy Myers
Troy Myers is a regional reporter based in St. Augustine, Florida. His background includes breaking, criminal justice, and writing for local news, producing on a national morning newscast in Washington, D.C., and working with an award-winning, weekly news program. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his dog at the beach.
September 14, 2026Updated: September 14, 2026

Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) returned to Congress on Monday in a wheelchair following months of absence and questions about his ability to continue to serve.

His return marked his first time back in Congress since June 14, when he was hospitalized by a fall he took in his home, which led to a three-month hiatus from his duties on Capitol Hill that sparked criticism and speculation about the 84-year-old’s health.

“Today, I’ll cast my first Senate vote since I took a bad fall back in June,” McConnell wrote in a post on X. “I’m really looking forward to being back on the Senate floor and seeing my colleagues.”

The senator added that his recovery has been long and frustrating, blaming the lingering effects of childhood polio.

He said he is still not back to 100 percent health, but he assured Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) he will do his “best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me.”

“Elaine [Chao] 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 said, referring to his wife.

This is a developing story and will be updated.