Sen. Mitch McConnell hospitalized after experiencing 'flu-like symptoms'

ByAllison Pecorin ABCNews logo
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
ABC News Live

Sen. Mitch McConnell has been hospitalized for evaluation after experiencing flu-like symptoms, his spokesperson said. 

"In an abundance of caution, after experiencing flu-like symptoms over the weekend, Senator McConnell checked himself into a local hospital for evaluation last night," McConnell spokesman David Popp said in a statement. "His prognosis is positive and he is grateful for the excellent care he is receiving. He is in regular contact with his staff and looks forward to returning to Senate business." 

Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., speaks at the annual Fancy Farm picnic, Aug. 2, 2025, in Fancy Farm, Ky.
Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., speaks at the annual Fancy Farm picnic, Aug. 2, 2025, in Fancy Farm, Ky.
AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File

McConnell, 84, who announced last February he would end his long tenure in the Senate at the end of the current term, was hospitalized in March 2023 for five days after suffering a concussion and a broken rib after a fall at a Washington, D.C., hotel. 

He suffered a "minor cut" to the face and a "sprained wrist" after another fall during a Senate Republican lunch in December 2024. 

McConnell served as the Senate Republican leader for a record-shattering 18 years - the longest- serving party leader of either party. He stepped down from the role in 2024 and was succeeded in by current Majority Leader John Thune.

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