McConnell fell on March 8 at a private dinner in D.C. and subsequently was hospitalized for a concussion; he also suffered a rib fracture. He was then moved to an inpatient rehab facility several days later. In the meantime, his condition and return has been the subject of immense interest in the Senate. In consultation with McConnell and his staff, Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) has been helping run the Senate GOP during McConnnell’s absence.
McConnell’s GOP colleagues, including Thune, reported this week that they’d spoken to him on the phone, and McConnell has been texting with them about congressional business. He’s also been keeping tabs on Senate races, texting with Gov. Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) about his possible entry into the West Virginia Senate race.
“I’m in frequent touch with my Senate colleagues and my staff. I look forward to returning in person to the Senate soon,” McConnell, 81, said on Saturday.
The Republican leader also fell and fractured his shoulder in 2019.