WATCH: Mitch McConnell Freezes During Press Conference, Taken Away By Republican Colleagues

Zinger Key Points
  • Senator Mitch McConnell abruptly halted his speech, sparking concerns about his health.
  • The incident reignites discussions about the age of elected officials in the U.S.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) was escorted away from the podium during his weekly press conference on Wednesday after freezing mid-sentence, raising questions about his health.

McConnell, who is 81 and suffered a concussion earlier this year, was addressing the press when he inexplicably stopped talking, requiring his Republican colleagues to intervene and escort him away. 

Read Also: Kevin McCarthy Dismisses Trump's 2024 Chances But Quickly Backpedals: Where Does Mitch McConnell Stand?

Ken Klippenstein, a reporter for The Intercept, shared a video of the incident on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter. 

Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) intervened, grabbing McConnell’s arm and asking him if there is anything else he would like to say to the press before ushering McConnell away from the crowd.

The mishap highlights the ongoing conversation regarding the age of elected officials in the United States. The average age of a senator is the highest it’s been in at least the last 20 years, according to CNN. 

McConnell reportedly told a CNN reporter that he was “fine” following the incident, and returned to finish his Q&A session. 

Two of the most senior leaders in Congress, McConnell and Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), are in their 80s. And, the 2024 presidential election may be a rematch between Donald Trump, 77, and President Joe Biden, 80. 

Now Read: Trump Pleads With Congress As Potential Indictment Over Capitol Riot Looms: 'Please Investigate Political Witch Hunts'
Photo: Shutterstock

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs
Comments
Loading...
Posted In: PoliticsGeneralDonald TrumpJoe BidenJohn BarrassoMitch McConnelNancy Pelosi
Benzinga simplifies the market for smarter investing

Trade confidently with insights and alerts from analyst ratings, free reports and breaking news that affects the stocks you care about.

Join Now: Free!