Mitch McConnell falls during Senate Republican luncheon

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell fell during the Senate Republican luncheon on Tuesday.

It was initially unclear whether the 82-year-old McConnell was injured and how serious the fall was. Two medical responders were briefly seen entering and then leaving his office.

Shortly afterward, McConnell’s office released a statement saying he suffered a “minor cut” to his face and a “sprained wrist” as a result of the incident.

“Leader McConnell stumbled after lunch. He sustained a minor cut on his face and sprained his wrist. He has been cleared to resume his schedule,” his spokesman said.

Newly elected Senate Republican leader John Thune, who will take over from McConnell in January, was asked about McConnell’s ouster during the Republicans’ post-lunch news conference.

“He’s fine, he’s in his office,” Thune said, deferring further questions to McConnell’s staff.

McConnell, who walked with a limp after overcoming polio at a young age, had fallen before.

A March 2023 fall at a Washington hotel led to an extended absence from the Senate. McConnell suffered a concussion and broken ribs from the incident, requiring hospitalization and outpatient rehabilitation, forcing him to miss six weeks from Capitol Hill.

McConnell also caused concern after two episodes last year in which he appeared to freeze in front of television cameras, although he was later cleared to work by the Capitol doctor.

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

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