Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) put out a statement that he's been discharged from a rehabilitation center, but online sleuths aren't buying it.
McConnell was recovering from a fall he suffered in mid-June, but the lack of public appearances and two proof-of-life photos have drawn scrutiny and doubt. His absence has also caused problems for the GOP Senate, as he hasn't been able to cast a vote, including on his committees.
"Earlier today, I was discharged from the rehabilitation center to continue my recovery at home," a statement from McConnell's office read. "Elaine and I are grateful for the many well wishes."
Online critics demanded more evidence that McConnell is able to continue serving as a senator, and others called out the toll that his extended absence has taken.
"It's strange," posted writer and political commentator Charlotte Clymer on X. "No photos of Mitch McConnell leaving the rehab center. None of him arriving at the departure airport. None of him at the arrival airport. None of him arriving at his Kentucky home. None whatsoever. Just a statement."
"I'm glad to see this update. Now, let's hear from him," wrote Charles Booker, a Kentucky Democratic candidate for McConnell's open Senate seat. "Kentuckians deserve more than another written statement. They deserve to hear directly from their senator about his recovery and his ability to continue serving."
Booker also called out his opponent, GOP nominee for Senate Andy Barr, saying, "Barr claims he has McConnell's ear. If that's true, stop speaking for him and start urging him to speak to the people of Kentucky," and demanded of Barr, "Will you stand up for your constituents or protect Mitch McConnell?"
"If he had returned to vote, he could potentially have been deciding 50th vote (+VP) to rescue Todd Blanche's nomination," noted Bloomberg reporter Steven Dennis. "Lisa Murkowski and Bill Cassidy, who both voted to convict Trump of [inciting] insurrection, have the power to block Blanche."
Desiree Townsend, who's been building a reputation by hanging out around McConnell's rehab center, demanded, "How is it that not a single news organization filmed him leaving the hospital? Why is there no photo or video of him in his current condition at home?"
