McConnell return rumors swirl after months of Senate absence as staff reveals September plan

WASHINGTON, DC: After months of Senate absence, Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell is likely to return to the floor soon, as staff reveals that the senator plans to participate in the proceedings after the upper chamber returns later this month.

McConnell's staff did not share the information directly. Instead, Rep James Comer (R-Kentucky) revealed the plans, citing contact with the senator’s staff.

Mitch McConnell is expected to return on September 14

After James Comer was asked if McConnell was expected to join his Senate colleagues on September 14, he replied, "I expect that. I sure hope so."

Comer said that he had talked to McConnell's staff, who have "said it’s their goal for Senator McConnell to be here… when the Senate returns."

Senators are slated to return to work in Washington, DC, on September 14.

According to the US Senate Press Gallery, the chamber will hold only brief pro forma sessions on Tuesday, September 8, and Thursday, September 10, before formally reconvening at 3 pm on Monday, September 14, with one vote scheduled that evening at 5.30 pm.

McConnell had suffered a fall in June and was admitted to hospital. He was released from the rehabilitation center nearly a month ago.

McConnell’s prolonged absence fuels several questions

Apart from the fall, McConnell had also been diagnosed with pneumonia. His prolonged absence has fueled questions about his health and future in office, with Kentucky Gov Andy Beshear publicly calling on the longtime senator to provide more information about his condition or step aside.

In a July letter, Beshear urged McConnell to "directly and verbally address the people of Kentucky and provide proof of your capacity to serve, or resign."

Criticism also came from the other side of the aisle. While wishing McConnell a speedy recovery in a July interview with Fox News, Sen Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, said the Kentucky senator had an “obligation to your constituents and the country to tell them what’s going on.”

Hawley also said that Republicans missing McConnell’s crucial vote in the Senate was not easy, given the GOP’s slim majority.

Since his disappearance, the senator has missed 60 roll call votes, according to GovTrack, as well as votes on major legislation and several high-profile confirmation proceedings.

McConnell announced Aug 6 that he was discharged from a rehabilitation facility and would continue recovering at home.

"Elaine and I are grateful for the many well wishes and support from friends, colleagues, and Kentuckians," McConnell said in a statement issued by his Senate office.