Mitch McConnell slipped and fell at a Senate Republican lunch

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell fell during the Senate Republican lunch on Tuesday.

It is uncertain whether McConnell, who is 82 years old, sustained any injuries or the seriousness of the fall. Medical personnel were observed entering his office briefly and have since left.

Newly-elected Senate Republican Leader John Thune, who will assume McConnell’s position in January, was questioned about McConnell’s fall during the Republican press briefing following lunch.

“He’s fine, he’s in his office,” Thune said, deferring further questions to McConnell’s staff. McConnell’s office has not yet released a statement.

McConnell, who has walked with a limp after overcoming polio at a young age, has taken previous falls.

One fall in March 2023 at a hotel in Washington resulted in a prolonged absence from the Senate. McConnell suffered a concussion and fractured rib from the incident, requiring hospitalization and outpatient rehabilitation that forced him to miss six weeks on Capitol Hill.

McConnell also sparked concern after two episodes last year during which he appeared to freeze in front of television cameras, though he was later cleared to work by the Capitol physician.

The longtime Kentucky senator announced in February he was stepping down from the leadership role he’s held for two decades.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.