A GOP senator lost her cool when addressing questions about when Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) will return, per reports.
An article by The New York Times about McConnell's extended absence and health described how Republicans are responding to questions about the senior senator. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) responded by taking offense at those pressing for answers.
"Mitch was the longest-serving leader in Senate history," Collins said. "Couldn't we extend some grace to him? He is a survivor of childhood polio, which has made his recovery slower. But he has always been a fighter and will be back."
She also lashed out at Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) for demanding that McConnell "directly and verbally address the people of Kentucky and provide proof of your capacity to serve, or resign."
"This rush led by the governor, who must be running for president, is so unseemly and so unkind to a senator who has been such a leader for so many years," responded Collins, who serves alongside McConnell on the Senate Appropriations Committee as its chair. The Daily Beast's reporting noted that Collins has also faced questions about her tremors, which she says are benign.
The Times also spoke to John Feehery, a longtime senior congressional aide and Republican strategist, about a possible special election to replace McConnell. Feehery said it would be a waste of time and money, according to The Times.
"Mitch McConnell deserves the right to serve out the term however he sees fit," Feehery said. "He is certainly not the first senator to have health problems which require him to miss votes, and he certainly won't be the last."
