McConnell responds to questions after two instances of freezing mid-sentence at public events

A day after the Senate reconvened for the fall, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell responded to questions about his health following two instances over the summer in which he froze while answering reporters’ questions. McConnell referred to a letter from the Capitol Hill attending physician Brian Monahan that stated “there is no evidence” that McConnell suffered a stroke, has a seizure disorder or a nervous system disorder like Parkinson’s disease. The 81-year-old told reporters he intends to finish his terms as senator and minority leader.

Video Transcript

- Respectfully, can you tell us what is afflicting you and describe, characterize, what is the level of transparency that the people of Kentucky deserve to hear about your condition?

MITCH MCCONNELL: Well, I think Dr. Monahan covered--

- We'd like to hear from you.

MITCH MCCONNELL: I know. You are hearing from me. I think Dr. Monahan covered the subject fully. You've had a chance to read it. I don't have anything to add to it. And I think it should answer any reasonable question.

[REPORTERS CLAMORING]

- He ruled things out. He didn't tell us what it might have been. Do you know what it is?

- Leader McConnell?

- Leader McConnell, you've had all these evaluations. What have doctors said is the precise medical reason for those two freeze-ups?

MITCH MCCONNELL: What Dr. Monahan's report addressed was concerns people might have that some things that happened to me did happen. Well, they didn't. And really, I have nothing to add to that. I think he pretty well covered the subject.

[REPORTERS CLAMORING]

- Leader McConnell, what do you say to those who are calling on you to step down? Do you have any plans to retire anytime soon?

MITCH MCCONNELL: I have no announcements to make on that subject.

- But what do you say to those who are--

MITCH MCCONNELL: I'm going to finish my term as leader, and I'm going to finish my Senate term. Thank you.