Scott Jennings Provides Update on Mitch McConnell’s Health

Conservative commentator Scott Jennings discussed his recent conversation with Senator Mitch McConnell on CNN, stating that McConnell is in an “improving position” health-wise. This update comes after McConnell’s hospitalization on June 14, which led to his stay in an inpatient rehabilitation facility.

McConnell’s office confirmed last week that he had been discharged and is now recovering at home. However, the senator has not yet addressed his constituents or the public, creating concerns about his health and ability to continue his tenure.

Speaking on CNN’s The Arena, Jennings shared that McConnell personally contacted him, demonstrating engagement and focus on political matters. The senator, aged 84, discussed various topics including the Michigan Senate race, Republican electoral plans, the farm bill, and the Senate filibuster.

“He called me directly from his phone today,” Jennings noted, adding that McConnell sounded noticeably better than before. “Being at home is better than being in the hospital, that’s for sure.”

Jennings mentioned that McConnell plans to return to Senate duties when lawmakers reconvene on September 14. The senator aims to address significant legislative issues before retiring in January.

Meanwhile, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has questioned McConnell’s silence, suggesting constituents require a direct update. Beshear has yet to receive personal communication from the senator, sparking concerns about his capability to serve.

Jennings defended McConnell, describing him as intensely private, particularly about health matters. As a polio survivor, McConnell has historically avoided public health discussions. Despite not voting in the Senate since June, Jennings stated that McConnell maintains active engagement through staff meetings and phone discussions with fellow senators.

McConnell is concluding his lengthy Senate career as Kentucky anticipates electing his successor in November. Jennings affirmed that their conversation revealed McConnell’s continued engagement with politics and campaign strategies despite his absence from the public eye.

“We talked a lot about the Michigan Senate race, and about the general electoral math,” noted Jennings. He remarked that McConnell appeared eager and energized to return to legislative matters such as the farm bill and NDAA.

Addressing concerns about his absence, McConnell reportedly told Jennings, “I know this is an unusual circumstance. I’m sitting here, the doctors tell me I don’t have any life-threatening issues. It must seem rather strange.” Jennings noted that McConnell is aware of the public scrutiny regarding his condition and is somewhat frustrated by the speculation.