President Donald Trump said Wednesday he has no knowledge of former Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell’s condition following the Kentucky Republican’s recent hospitalization.
McConnell, 84, was found unresponsive at his Washington home weeks ago and required CPR, according to initial reports. His office has released minimal updates since his June 14 hospitalization, stating only that he is receiving “excellent care” and “continues to improve.”
Trump told reporters he has not spoken with McConnell since the hospitalization occurred. “I have no idea how Sen. Mitch McConnell is doing,” Trump said, according to White House correspondent Libby Dean’s account of the exchange.
Governor Seeks Public Health Update
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, sent a letter to McConnell on Wednesday requesting transparency about his health status. “As Governor, I request that you fully update Kentuckians regarding the current status of your health,” Beshear wrote.
Beshear emphasized the responsibility of public officials to communicate openly with constituents. “I believe this requires clear communication about one’s ability to serve,” the governor added.
Congress in the Dark
Confusion persists among Republican senators about McConnell’s condition. Utah Senator Mike Lee stated that members of Congress lack information about the former majority leader’s status. “Many of us aren’t speaking about Mitch McConnell’s condition because we know nothing about his condition,” Lee posted on social media.
This contrasts with earlier comments from current Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who said on June 15 that McConnell “sounded good” during a conversation. “He wants to be back, but I’ll defer to his staff on when,” Thune said at the time.
Health Speculation and Updates
McConnell’s office reported last week that the senator “continues to improve, and is working closely with his staff on Kentucky and Senate matters while the Senate is out of session.”
The lack of detailed information has sparked online speculation about the severity of his condition. Conservative activist Laura Loomer claimed sources told her McConnell is in a “vegetative state,” though no official confirmation exists.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Digital Team contributed to this report.
