Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear wants Sen. Mitch McConnell to verbally address Kentuckians—or risk a Senate investigation that could ultimately trigger McConnell being expelled and replaced.
In a July 27 letter, Beshear called on 84-year-old McConnell—who has been out of public view for more than six weeks—to “directly and verbally address the people of Kentucky and provide proof of your capacity to serve, or resign.”
Beshear—a Democrat eyeing a 2028 presidential run—has been under pressure for weeks as McConnell’s hospitalization and limited details about his condition fueled rampant online speculation that the Republican senator is either dead or otherwise incapacitated.
McConnell has shared two statements, along with doctor’s notes and photos with his wife, in recent weeks, explaining he is recovering in a rehab facility from a mid-June fall. While some GOP allies have said they’ve spoken with McConnell on the phone, he has not shared a verbal or video statement publicly.
McConnell said Monday morning he is not yet medically cleared to head back to the Senate floor, but plans to do so when he can. He was already planning on retiring from the Senate at the end of the year.
Senate vacancies, Beshear wrote, can only be filled when a senator dies, resigns, or is expelled by the Senate itself.
“If you are unwilling to voluntarily show that you still have the capacity to serve, I will insist Leader [John] Thune fully investigate your condition, report to the American people, and begin the process if warranted,” Beshear wrote.
