Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is taking steps to reassure fellow Republicans about his health at a critical time when the House GOP struggles to elect a Speaker. McConnell, who recently experienced two freezing incidents, emphasized that he has “completely recovered.”
Appearing on two Sunday talk shows, McConnell advocated for a supplemental package that combines funding for Israel to combat Hamas with support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russia. He also made it clear that his health issues are now behind him.
“I’m fine. I’m completely recovered, and I’m just fine,” McConnell assured Margaret Brennan, the moderator of CBS’s “Face the Nation.” “I’m in good shape, completely recovered, and back on the job.”
McConnell’s episodes of freezing in front of the media occurred in late August during an appearance in Covington, Ky., and a month earlier in the Capitol while addressing reporters.
Currently, McConnell holds a pivotal role as the most powerful Republican lawmaker, while the House GOP faces a three-week delay in selecting a Speaker. Issues like government funding, set to expire in less than a month, and ongoing conflicts in Israel and Ukraine take center stage.
Republicans have expressed confidence in McConnell’s statements, with one Senate GOP aide stating, “It’s reflecting what a lot of members are seeing privately in these meetings.”
The White House recently requested $106 billion for various purposes, including aid for Israel and Ukraine and funding for border security. Some conservatives have criticized the White House’s approach, particularly the combination of Ukraine and Israel aid into a single package. However, McConnell, a staunch supporter of Ukraine aid, voiced his support for this joint effort on both “Face the Nation” and “Fox News Sunday.”
McConnell argued against separating Ukraine aid, stating, “I just think that’s a mistake… I view it as all interconnected.” After the 45-day stopgap spending deal failed to include funding for Ukraine’s efforts against Russian aggression, Senate Republicans believe this is their best chance to pass it, especially considering the difficulties in the House.
In addition to Ukraine aid, attaching significant border security funding is considered crucial by Republicans to ensure the success of the supplemental package. A group of Senate GOP members gathered to discuss the border component before embarking on a congressional delegation trip to Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
The Biden administration has requested substantial funding for national security concerns at the border, Ukraine, Israel, and humanitarian relief. McConnell is determined to keep this effort at the forefront as members face crucial weeks ahead.
“I think we ought to be talking about what we were talking about earlier rather than my health,” McConnell stated.
Known for his strategic timing, McConnell’s media appearances on Sunday were a deliberate move. His last Sunday show appearances were in the spring of 2022, coinciding with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“He’s very intentional about what he does and what he says,” noted a Senate GOP aide, emphasizing the significance of McConnell’s comments regarding his health.