82-Year-Old McConnell In Wheelchair After Falling Down Capitol Stairs: Reports

A series of troubling health-related issues have plagued octogenarian Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in recent years.

After he inexplicably froze up during multiple public appearances and concerns mounted about his health, he ultimately opted to step down from his role as Senate GOP Leader, though he retained his seat in the chamber.

This week, less than two months after he took a spill at a Senate Republican lunch, McConnell reportedly fell again.

McConnell fell again outside Senate chamber but was able to get up

He’s in GOP lunch now, standing. His colleagues are huddled around him https://t.co/tcNHjOfhC2

— Igor Bobic (@igorbobic) February 5, 2025

According to Breitbart:

Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) fell down the stairs outside the Senate chamber Wednesday, where reporters watched the octogenarian regain his footing.

McConnell got up with the help of Sens. Steve Daines (R-MT) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and tried to walk it off.

McConnell also fell in December, continuing a pattern that raised alarms in 2023, leaving him with a hurt wrist, bruised hand, and bandages on his finger and face.

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The troubling incidents added up to plenty of reason for many Americans to express concerns about his ability to serve in the Senate:

What's going on here 🤦🏾‍♀️ why they have that bandage wrapped around Mitch McConnell"s head like that. These senators and state representatives most definitely need a cap on how long they can serve in congress. pic.twitter.com/jwmEEYjdZB

— Trisha M Judah (@QueenZion1965) December 11, 2024

McConnell says 'no concerns' despite visible bandages and bruises https://t.co/wGoetPDFqG pic.twitter.com/AUiScmQpBG

— CTV News (@CTVNews) October 23, 2020

Mitch McConnell escorted away from cameras after freezing mid-news conference. pic.twitter.com/yTrERJe78D

— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) July 26, 2023

Axios also reported on McConnell’s latest fall:

• McConnell fell exiting the Senate chamber following a vote midday Wednesday and was able to return to his feet with the help of security and nearby senators, according to multiple reports on Twitter.

What they’re saying: “Senator McConnell is fine,” a McConnell spokesman said, adding that “The lingering effects of polio in his left leg will not disrupt his regular schedule of work.”

• A person familiar with the matter said McConnell subsequently was “using a wheelchair purely as a precautionary measure.”

Here’s some coverage of his fall late last year: