14, according to Rep. Sen. Mitch McConnell is aiming to return to Capitol Hill when the Senate reconvenes on Sept. James Comer, offering the clearest recent indication of when the longtime Kentucky Republican could resume his Senate duties after a months-long absence.
He announced last month that he had been discharged from the rehabilitation facility. His extended absence has nevertheless raised questions about whether he would be able to return to the Senate for the remaining months of his final term. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has publicly called for greater transparency regarding McConnell’s health. Beshear has asked for evidence that the senator remains mentally and physically capable of completing his term.
Comer, a Kentucky Republican and chair of the House Oversight Committee, said Thursday that he expects McConnell to be back in Washington when senators return following the congressional recess. Comer cautioned that he had not spoken directly with McConnell but said he remained in regular contact with the senator’s staff.
Joni Ernst of Iowa also defended the information released by McConnell’s physician, saying updates provided to fellow senators were sufficient to explain his condition. Sen.
Roger Marshall of Kansas described McConnell as one of the “toughest guys I’ve ever met” and said he believed the Kentucky senator was making progress and would be back.
Comer’s comments do not amount to a confirmed return date.
“They have all said it’s their goal for Sen. McConnell to be here when the Senate comes in next week,” Comer said. He said he expected McConnell to join his colleagues but acknowledged that he had not spoken to the senator himself.
