Josh Hawley calls for more transparency regarding the health and prolonged absence of Mitch McConnell.
Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., urged Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., to provide more transparency regarding his health following a month-long absence from the Senate. The 84-year-old former majority leader has been hospitalized since a fall at his home, which led to a bout of pneumonia. Hawley noted that the lack of communication has left many, including himself, "totally in the dark" about the specific details of the situation. This absence is significant for the Republican caucus, which is currently down two votes as it works to finalize key parts of President Trump's agenda. Hawley emphasized that the party has an obligation to inform constituents, especially as the slim majority makes every vote critical for priorities like the SAVE America Act. While Hawley expressed his well-wishes for McConnell’s recovery, he also used the situation to advocate for constitutional term limits. He suggested that while some older senators remain sharp, term limits would ensure a more dynamic legislative body. McConnell eventually issued an open letter to Kentuckians, acknowledging his mobility issues and pledging to return to the floor as soon as possible.