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Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear Demands Proof of Capability or Resignation from Senator Mitch McConnell

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has issued an ultimatum to Senator Mitch McConnell, demanding that the 84-year-old Republican leader provide verbal proof of his capacity to serve in the U.S. Senate or resign. This demand follows a period of extended hospitalization and a lack of transparency regarding McConnell's health status since a fall in June. Beshear, a Democrat, argued that the senator's absence has led to rampant speculation and called on McConnell to directly address his constituents. The governor also signaled that he would call on Senate Majority Leader John Thune to investigate the condition if McConnell fails to provide clarity. Meanwhile, McConnell's office reported that the senator is currently undergoing strenuous physical therapy in a rehab facility but is not yet medically cleared to return to his full legislative duties. The situation is complicated by Kentucky state law, which requires a special election to fill a vacancy rather than allowing the governor to appoint a replacement. Beshear has set a deadline of August 3 to call for a special election, which would allow voters to choose a successor to McConnell before his term expires in 2026.

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