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McConnell Returns to Senate as Kentucky Representation Shrinks

By Drooid · Sep 14, 2026, 11:09 PM UTC · How we work

Center

Paid During Rehab

Sen. Mitch McConnell has been absent from the Senate since his June 14, 2026 hospitalization after a fall, as chamber reconvenes on Sept. 14, 2026.
During his 94-day absence, McConnell kept his $174,000 annual Senate salary, receiving about $45,000 for the period.
Rep. James Comer said McConnell’s staff aim for senator to return when Senate reconvenes.
He left rehab on Aug. 6, will continue recovery and stay engaged with Senate work.

Left

Staged Photo Evidence

Sen. Mitch McConnell, 84, has been absent from the Senate since his June 14, 2026 hospitalization after a fall, as the chamber reconvenes on September 14, 2026.
Lawmakers and watchdogs say the scant health information and refusal to release a video undermine Kentucky voters’ representation and spark speculation.
McConnell has missed 60 Senate votes, leaving Kentucky with only half its representation.
Critics note the two photos released since his fall appear staged.

History

Historical Context

Senator Ted Kennedy, who served 47 years after winning a 1962 special election, died of a brain tumor on August 25 2009. His death prompted Massachusetts to amend its law in September 2009, allowing Governor Deval Patrick to appoint Paul G. Kirk as interim senator, and led to the Jan 19 2010 special election where Republican Scott Brown won with 51.8% of the vote, ending the Democrats’ filibuster-proof Senate majority.

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Paid During Rehab

Sen. Mitch McConnell has been absent from the Senate since his June 14, 2026 hospitalization after a fall, as chamber reconvenes on Sept. 14, 2026.
During his 94-day absence, McConnell kept his $174,000 annual Senate salary, receiving about $45,000 for the period.
Rep. James Comer said McConnell’s staff aim for senator to return when Senate reconvenes.
He left rehab on Aug. 6, will continue recovery and stay engaged with Senate work.

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