Sen. Mitch McConnell hospitalized after experiencing 'flu-like symptoms'

Sen. Mitch McConnell has been hospitalized for evaluation after experiencing flu-like symptoms, his spokesperson said. 

“In an abundance of caution, after experiencing flu-like symptoms over the weekend, Senator McConnell checked himself into a local hospital for evaluation last night," McConnell spokesman David Popp said in a statement. "His prognosis is positive and he is grateful for the excellent care he is receiving. He is in regular contact with his staff and looks forward to returning to Senate business." 

McConnell, 84, who announced last February he would end his long tenure in the Senate at the end of his current term, was hospitalized in March 2023 for five days after suffering a concussion and a broken rib after a fall at a Washington, D.C., hotel. 

He suffered a "minor cut" to the face and a "sprained wrist" after another fall during a Senate Republican lunch in December 2024. 

McConnell served as Senate Republican leader for a record-shattering 18 years — the longest-serving leader of either party. He stepped down from the role in 2024 and was succeeded by current majority leader, John Thune.