Senior Republican Senator Mitch McConnell was hospitalized with flu-like symptoms on Monday evening, February 2, 2026.
In a statement Tuesday, the politician’s office said Senator McConnell checked himself into the hospital “out of an abundance of caution,” adding: “His prognosis is positive.”
His spokesman, David Popp, said: “The senator is grateful for the excellent care he is receiving. He is in regular contact with his staff and looks forward to returning to Senate business.”
One of the oldest and longest serving senators in United States (US) history is currently 83 years old. The former Senate GOP leader announced he will retire at the end of his current term and will not seek re-election in 2026.
McConnell has had several health issues over the past few years, including a broken shoulder after a fall at his Kentucky home in 2019 and a concussion in 2023.
He is one of the most outspoken senators from the Republican Party and has voted against several high-profile nominations from President Donald Trump.
McConnell was the only senator to vote against the appointment of Tulsi Gabbard to the position of Director of National Intelligence and one of the three who opposed the confirmation of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
