Senate Minority Leader McConnell Hospitalized with Flu-Like Symptoms

The 83-year-old senator is in regular contact with his staff and has a positive prognosis, his office says.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has been hospitalized after experiencing flu-like symptoms over the weekend. A spokesperson for McConnell's office confirmed that the 83-year-old senator checked himself into a local hospital on Monday evening 'out of an abundance of caution.' McConnell has missed Senate votes this week due to his illness, but his office says his prognosis is positive and he looks forward to returning to work.

Why it matters

McConnell's hospitalization comes as the longtime senator has faced several health issues in recent years, including two notable episodes in 2023 where he appeared to freeze while speaking publicly. His decision not to seek re-election, announced on his 83rd birthday last February, has also raised questions about the future leadership of the Republican Party in the Senate.

The details

According to McConnell's office, the senator began experiencing flu-like symptoms over the weekend and decided to check himself into a local hospital on Monday evening 'out of an abundance of caution.' A spokesperson said McConnell is in regular contact with his staff and his prognosis is positive, and he looks forward to returning to Senate business.

  • McConnell checked himself into the hospital on Monday evening.
  • McConnell missed Senate votes on Monday and Tuesday.

The players

Mitch McConnell

The 83-year-old Senate Minority Leader from Kentucky who is not seeking re-election.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Spokesperson for Mitch McConnell (kfor.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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