Senator McConnell Not Yet Medically Cleared to Return to Senate Following Rehabilitation

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has been discharged from the hospital but is still not cleared to return to work on Capitol Hill. According to WNDU, McConnell remains at a rehabilitation center where he is continuing physical therapy following his multi-week hospitalization.
McConnell said he is "working hard" to get back to his full schedule in the Senate and in Kentucky. But for now, his doctors have not given him the green light to leave the rehab facility.
The Office of the Attending Physician (OAP) is the body that decides when senators are medically cleared to return to duty. KFYR-TV reported that the OAP has not yet issued that clearance for McConnell. Until it does, he cannot leave the rehab facility and resume his duties in the Senate.
The OAP serves as the official medical authority for members of Congress. Its clearance is required before McConnell can return to his Senate office or travel for official business.
McConnell was hospitalized for several weeks before being discharged. He is now in a rehabilitation center focused on physical therapy. WAVE 3 News confirmed that while he has left the hospital, he has not yet been cleared to return to his Senate duties.
Physical therapy after a long hospital stay is common. It helps patients rebuild strength and mobility. McConnell's team has not given a specific timeline for when he expects to return.
Despite his absence from the Senate floor, McConnell says he remains active. He has pledged to maintain a full schedule of work, both in Washington and back home in Kentucky. WBTV noted that McConnell is committed to returning as quickly as his recovery allows.
McConnell has not yet said publicly when he expects to be cleared. His office has not provided a target return date. His absence continues to draw attention given his role as the top Senate Republican.
McConnell's extended time away from the Senate comes at a busy period for Congress. His absence means the Republican caucus is navigating key votes and negotiations without its top leader physically present. Atlanta News First reported he remains sidelined for now.
McConnell has faced several health challenges in recent years, including a concussion from a fall in 2023. Each episode has renewed questions about the health and stamina of senior lawmakers. He has consistently said he plans to finish his term, which runs through January 2027.
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