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August 31, 2023

Mitch McConnell Freezes During Press Conference for Second Time in Two Months
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President Biden said he would speak to Senate Minority Leader Mitch Mc
Connell, whom Biden called a "good friend," after the 81-year-old
Republican leader froze for around 30 seconds while speaking to
reporters in Kentucky before two aides intervened.

Minority Leader Mitch Mc Connell: "I'm sorry. I had a hard time hearing
you."

Reporter: "That's OK. What are your thoughts on running for reelection
in 2026?"

Minority Leader Mitch Mc Connell: "What are my thoughts about what?

Reporter: "Running for reelection in 2026."

Minority Leader Mitch Mc Connell: "Oh. That's…"

Aide: "Did you hear the question, Senator? Running for reelection in
2026?"

Minority Leader Mitch Mc Connell: "Yes."

Aide: "OK. All right. I'm sorry, y'all. We're going to need a minute."

It's the second such incident in a little over a month as questions
mount over Mc Connell's ability to finish out his term. The senator
froze in late July while speaking to reporters in the U.S. Capitol and
had to be escorted away. Mc Connell suffered a concussion from a fall in
March, and at least two more falls since then.


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