McConnell Found Unconscious Before Hospitalization, EMS Dispatch Reveals

Despite those health challenges, he has continued serving in the Senate.

McConnell stepped down as Senate Republican leader in January 2025 after leading the conference for nearly 18 years.

He first became Republican leader in 2007, making him the longest-serving Senate party leader in American history.

In February 2025, McConnell announced he would not seek an eighth Senate term in 2026.

His retirement decision marked the end of a decades-long political career that made him one of the most influential Republicans in modern congressional history.

Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky., won this year’s Republican primary and is expected to seek McConnell’s seat in the November general election.

The Senate is currently in recess and is scheduled to return on July 13.