Is McConnell out?
The National Review, a publication known for its conservative stance, issued a call on Thursday for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) to step down from his leadership role. This comes after McConnell faced a notable pause during a press conference on Wednesday, marking the second such incident in recent weeks.
According to The Hill, in a published editorial on Thursday, the National Review acknowledged McConnell’s significant and historic tenure in the Senate. However, the publication stated that “the time has come for the Kentucky senator, after his long and distinguished service, to consider relinquishing his leadership position.”
The editorial further highlighted that stepping down from leadership wouldn’t necessarily mean leaving the Senate altogether. The piece drew a parallel to former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, indicating that McConnell could remain in office and maintain influence as long as he is capable. Yet, the National Review emphasized that the role of caucus leader entails higher demands.
During the press conference on Wednesday, McConnell experienced a momentary freeze lasting about 20 seconds while addressing reporters in Kentucky. This incident followed a similar occurrence in late July, when McConnell faced a freeze while speaking at his regular press conference in the U.S. Capitol.
In addition to these recent incidents, McConnell’s health has been a concern. He suffered a fall in March that resulted in a broken rib and concussion. There were reports suggesting other undisclosed falls as well.
The National Review commented on McConnell’s visibly aged appearance since his fall in March, stating that he should consider leaving on his own terms for his own well-being and that of his colleagues.
The publication asserted that the specifics of a leadership transition could be determined by McConnell himself and noted that while urgency might not be necessary, the process should begin.
The attending physician at the Capitol, Brian Monahan, released a letter on Thursday affirming McConnell’s medical clearance to continue with his planned schedule. Monahan aligned with McConnell’s spokesperson’s explanation, attributing the incidents to lightheadedness stemming from concussion recovery and potential dehydration.
However, the National Review maintained that the incidents appeared more disconcerting to the general public and stated that regardless of the medical explanation, McConnell’s ability to function as a prominent representative of his caucus was clearly impacted.
In closing, the National Review acknowledged that a comprehensive evaluation of McConnell’s legacy would come in due time. The editorial enumerated some of McConnell’s notable political contributions, including opposition to campaign-finance reform, resistance to the Obama agenda, refusal to fill the Scalia seat before the 2016 election, collaboration with President Trump on judges, and recent support for American global leadership. The publication concluded by positioning McConnell as one of the most influential politicians of the current era.