Capitol physician says there's no evidence McConnell has had a stroke or a 'seizure disorder' after freezing episodes

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (left) returns to his Capitol Hill office on September 5.

Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

• The Capitol physician says there is no evidence Mitch McConnell has had a stroke.
• Congress' doctor also wrote there's no evidence McConnell has a "seizure disorder" or something like "Parkinson's disease."
• The latest update on McConnell's health comes as speculation swirls over his future.

Capitol Physician Brian P. Monahan said on Tuesday that there is no evidence Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has experienced a stroke, has a seizure disorder, or has Parkinson's disease, a bill of health that comes as speculation swirls around McConnell's recent freezing episodes.

Monahan's prognosis came in the latest note to McConnell, which was then released by his doctor. While not specifically mentioned, there have been a number of theories about McConnell freezing up during recent news conferences. The latest occurrence happened during a Q and A with reporters back in Kentucky at the end of last month.

"There is no evidence that you have a seizure disorder or that you experienced a stroke, TIA or movement disorder such as Parkinson's disease," Monahan wrote.

According to Monahan, "There are no changes recommended in treatment" as McConnell continues to recover from a March fall. The Senate's top Republican was briefly hospitalized and treated for a concussion after the fall.

Monahan said he consulted with "several neurologists for a comprehensive neurology assessment" before reaching his latest finding. The Capitol doctor also looked at brain MRI imaging and an electroencephalogram or EEG study. 

McConnell, who is 81 years old, has led Senate Republicans for more than 16 years. Earlier this year, the Kentucky Republican became the longest-serving Senate leader in history. Before he froze up during his most recent episode, McConnell was asked about his plans for the future. 

Sen. Rick Scott of Florida, who led the Senate GOP campaign arm, unsuccessfully challenged McConnell for the leadership post after the 2022 midterms. McConnell easily squashed Scott's bid, but it was a sign that some Senate Republicans are beginning to look for new leadership. 

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