There is growing concern outside about the health of U.S. Senator and key Republican figure Mitch McConnell. He has been hospitalized for over three weeks.
According to a report by the BBC on July 8th, McConnell's staff revealed that the 84-year-old McConnell was hospitalized for treatment on June 14th. His assistant did not disclose the reason for his hospitalization, nor did he explain the type of treatment he is receiving.
June 4th, video screenshot of McConnell walking with assistance
The team of senators from Kentucky stated on July 2 that he is 'receiving very good care' and that his condition is 'continuing to improve'.
On Wednesday, Kentucky Democratic Governor Andy Beshear wrote to McConnell's office, urging the senator to 'stay transparent' and to disclose his latest health conditions as the outside world grows concerned about whether he has the ability to continue serving in his role.
Several American media reports stated that McConnell's residence called 911 for emergency assistance, requesting help for a person who was 'unconscious'. The person was described as having experienced a 'cardiac arrest'.
The call also showed that the personnel on the scene were performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the patient. McConnell, who has served in the Senate for over 40 years, was not explicitly mentioned during the recording.
Due to McKernan's office and family not providing any further information, rumors about his health condition have been circulating online.
On Tuesday, several Republicans said they spoke with McConnell over the phone. McConnell is the longest-serving Senate leader in U.S. history.
Previously, Laura Loomer, a Trump supporter and internet celebrity, claimed on the social platform X that the Kentucky senator was in a “vegetative state”. This far-right activist also stated that McConnell “has already gone brain dead and is being maintained by machines”, and accused of “covering up the facts”.
Loomer also criticized Joe Biden’s wife, former Transportation Secretary Jeane Lee, for visiting China during McConnell’s hospitalization.
Chinese officials also confirmed that Zhao Xiaolan met with Chinese high-level officials in Beijing on June 17, three days after McConnell's hospitalization.
Zhao Xiaolan, a spokesperson, responded that McConnell's health condition "did not require her to return to the United States immediately." However, she has subsequently returned to the United States.
The spokesperson stated in the statement: "The minister's trip to China was planned in advance, with the purpose of supporting her family's charitable work. During her visit, she met with several individuals, including the U.S. ambassador to China."
Obviously, this is meant to refute Lum's claims. Several Republican colleagues also issued statements, saying that they had had telephone conversations with this former Senate leader.
Senate Majority Leader John Tunn’s spokesman said that the two individuals had “a lengthy and substantive conversation, discussing various issues including national security.”
