Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jul 14
McConnell Office Posts Hospital Photo of 84-Year-Old Senator as Health Rumors Swirl
Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jul 14

McConnell Office Posts Hospital Photo of 84-Year-Old Senator as Health Rumors Swirl

3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jul 14

Summary

  • A new image showed Mitch McConnell smiling and sitting up in a hospital bed, part of an effort by his office to rebut rumors that he was incapacitated or dead.
  • The photo follows McConnell's recent public statement that he suffered no broken bones, concussion, heart attack or stroke after his June 14 fall.
  • The 84-year-old senator said he developed a mild case of pneumonia during hospitalization and has since moved to a rehabilitation center.
  • His extended absence from the Senate has fueled scrutiny of his health and fitness, though he has said he expects to return to work soon.

Insights

When a leader's health fails, where is the line between personal privacy and public duty?
Should aging public officials face mandatory health reviews to ensure their fitness to serve?