POLITICS
Why did Senator Mitch McConnell freeze again?
The veteran politican appeared to freeze in place for the second time this year before being excused by aides.
There is a growing problem on Capitol Hill of politicans working much longer than they probably should be. There have been two main cases in recent months; Diane Feinstein, the Democrat senator who has appeared lost and confused during meetings, and Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell.
The first incident for 81-year old McConnell was back at the end of July. During a press conference, the Kentuckian froze for 21 seconds.
“I’ve been concerned since he was injured a number of months ago,” said Senator John Barrasso. “I continue to be concerned.”
It has happened again. While being asked whether he would be running again when his term ends in 2026, McConnell again froze for 30 seconds.
“Leader McConnell felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today,” a spokesperson said after the incident.
While most US Senators take office in their early 50s, a lengthy service means that they can reach very old age in office. The average age of the upper chamber is 65,
Why did he freeze?
No information has been released about either incident.
However, like Sen. Barrasso said, McConnell was injured earlier this year. In March, he spent a week in the hospital due to a concussion and a fractured rib after falling outside a hotel. He then moved to a rehabilitation center and didn’t resume his Senate duties until mid-April.
Although this is conjecture, the fall may have played a role in these incidents.