President Joe Biden said he plans to reach out to “good friend” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell after his second alarming public health scare.
McConnell froze at the podium for the second time in the past few weeks, blankly staring ahead without responding to the question he had just been asked.
In a video posted by MSNBC on X, McConnell is asked for his thoughts on running for reelection in 2026.
He asks the reporter to repeat the question twice before stuttering and freezing in place, staring off into space for roughly thirty seconds as an aide walks over to assist him.
“Alright, I’m sorry you all, we’re gonna need a minute,” the aide said as another stepped up to the senator’s other side.
A spokesman for McConnell later said he “felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today” but “feels fine” and will consult a doctor before his next event out of precaution.
Concerned Lawmakers Reach Out
Three fellow Republicans reached out to McConnell after the incident.
Senate Republican Whip John Thune (SD) said McConnell “sounded like his usual self and was in good spirits.”
Senate GOP Conference Vice Chair Shelley Moore Capito (WV) said he “sounded fine” and she “looks forward to seeing him when the Senate is back on Tuesday.”
Senator Steve Daines (MT) said he was “glad to hear the Leader sounds like himself and is feeling fine.”
Biden Expresses Concern
President Biden, who has struggled with his own health struggles in public, told reporters he would contact McConnell about the incident.
“I just heard, literally, coming out. And Mitch is a friend, as you know, not a joke,” Biden said during remarks about the response to Hurricane Idalia. “We have disagreements politically, but he’s a good friend.”
“So, I’m going to try to get in touch with him later this afternoon. I don’t know enough to know,” Biden added.
The two served in the Senate together for over 20 years before Biden became vice president to then-President Barack Obama.
Further proof that Mitch has always been a traitorous Democrat at heart.
Best reason ever for term limits.