Story perspectives

Beshear Demands Senate Action on McConnell Vacancy Delay

8/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor Andy Beshear demanded Senate accountability on August 14, urging a vacancy ruling and blaming Senate Majority Leader John Thune for the delay in addressing Senator Mitch McConnell’s absence.
McConnell, who collapsed on June 14 and left rehab on August 6, said doctors found no broken bones, concussion, heart attack, stroke, tumors, or hemorrhages.
He said he will undergo intensive physical therapy at home and remain engaged with his staff.

History

Historical Context

Senator Ted Kennedy died on August 25, 2009, reviving a 2004 Massachusetts law that barred governors from appointing Senate replacements after Mitt Romney’s veto. The General Court passed the change with a 95-58 House vote (Sept 17) and 24-16 Senate vote (Sept 22). Governor Deval Patrick appointed Paul G. Kirk on September 24; Kirk’s service ended when Republican Scott Brown won the January 19, 2010 election, ending Democrats’ 60-vote supermajority.

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Story summary

Governor Andy Beshear demanded Senate accountability on August 14, urging a vacancy ruling and blaming Senate Majority Leader John Thune for the delay in addressing Senator Mitch McConnell’s absence.
McConnell, who collapsed on June 14 and left rehab on August 6, said doctors found no broken bones, concussion, heart attack, stroke, tumors, or hemorrhages.
He said he will undergo intensive physical therapy at home and remain engaged with his staff.

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