(WKYT) – Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell made his first public appearance in months to vote on the U.S. Senate Floor.
McConnell voted “yes” to move forward the nomination of Matthew R. Byrne, to be the United States District Judge for the Southern District of Ohio
In a social media post, McConnell said his “recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven’t made it any easier. I’m still not quite back to 100%, but I’ve assured Leader Thune that, as I continue with physical therapy on the advice of my doctors, I will do my best to be present for tough votes when our Conference needs me.”
Today, I’ll cast my first Senate vote since I took a bad fall back in June. I’m really looking forward to being back on the Senate floor and seeing my colleagues.
My recovery has been a long and often frustrating process, and the lingering effects of childhood polio haven’t made…
— U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (@SenMcConnell) September 14, 2026
Return speculation
The 84-year-old retiring Republican was absent from Washington for three months following a fall at his home in June that led to a hospital stay and intensive rehabilitation.
Speculation grew after house oversight Chair James Comer said McConnell’s staff expressed hope the Senator would return as soon as the senate convened.
However, McConnell’s office did not confirm a timeline, reiterating there are no scheduling announcements at this time.
When WKYT asked McConnell’s office about his return status, his office did not answer the question and pointed back to a statement issued on August 6, when he was discharged from a rehabilitation center.
The statement read:
“Earlier today, I was discharged from the rehabilitation center to continue my recovery at home. Elaine and I are grateful for the many well wishes and support from friends, colleagues, and Kentuckians, and for the attentive care I’ve received from excellent doctors, nurses, therapists, and hospital staff.
“On the advice of my doctors, I’ll maintain an intensive regimen of physical therapy from home during the state work period, and I’ll continue to engage with my staff and colleagues on important Senate business.”
When asked about McConnell’s return during his Team Kentucky briefing last week, Gov. Andy Beshear said he had not had any communication from the senator.