Top Mitch McConnell Aide Refuses to Answer Questions About Senator's Health as He Makes Elevator Escape
HEALTHSource: MEGA ; @SenatorMitchMcConnell/facebookThe staffer refused to answer question about what is really going on. Aug. 7 2026, Published 11:13 a. m. ETArticle continues below advertisementMitch. . .
HEALTHSource: MEGA ; @SenatorMitchMcConnell/facebookThe staffer refused to answer question about what is really going on. Aug. 7 2026, Published 11:13 a. m. ETArticle continues below advertisementMitch McConnell’ssenior adviser,David Popp, dodged a reporter's questions by stepping into an open elevator followingthe senator's releasefrom an inpatient physical therapy rehabilitation center on Thursday, August 6. ReporterNicholas Ballasycornered Popp in a Capitol Hill hallway to ask why the 84-year-old senator had not released any video updates to address rumors about his condition. “David, can you tell us why Senator McConnell hasn’t put out a video yet?” he asked as Popp appeared to plunge himself into the elevator to dodge him. “What’s going on with the situation?”Article continues below advertisementMitch McConnell's Staffer Avoids QuestionsSource: MEGAThe senator has been ill for a few months. Popp immediately spun away without speaking, stepped directly into a waiting elevator and stayed completely silent as the doors shut. This move follows a pattern among other high-level McConnell staff members — including Communications DirectorStephanie Pennand Senior AdviserRobert Steurer— who have refused to answer questions about the senator's status. The rehabilitation stay was for physical therapy followinga fall at his homeon June 14, where emergency medical records indicated he was initially found unconscious. He also contracted mild pneumonia during his recovery. Article continues below advertisementMitch McConnell Returns HomeSource: MEGAMitch McConnell left the rehab facility in August. McConnell’s office announced his official discharge from the inpatient rehabilitation facility to return home. Because McConnell has been out of public view for nearly two months, journalists and political figures have questioned the vague updates his spokespeople have provided via text, demandingproof of lifeor video statements. While McConnell stated he would continue working remotely and communicating with staff, his office has not provided a specific timeline for his in-person return to the Capitol floor. MORE ON:Mitch McConnellMitch McConnell's Mysterious Absence: Neighbors Reveal They Haven't Seen Anyone at His Washington, D. C. , Home Since Health ScareMitch McConnell's Health Mystery Deepens as MAGA Allies Clash With Senate Republicans Over Hospitalized Senator's ConditionMitch McConnell's Mysterious Hospitalization: Idaho Senator Doesn't Know If 84-Year-old Is 'Alive' as Health Concerns MountWant OK! each day? Sign up here!Article continues below advertisementSource: MEGAThe political guru said he is grateful for the 'well wishes. '“Elaineand I are grateful for the many well wishes and support from friends, colleagues, and Kentuckians, and for the attentive care I’ve received from excellent doctors, nurses, therapists, and hospital staff,” a statement McConnell released Thursday read. “On the advice of my doctors, I maintain an intensive regimen of physical therapy from home during the state work period, and I’ll continue to engage with my staff and colleagues on important Senate business,” he concluded. McConnell’s Capitol Police security detail, high-level staff and members of the press were seen gathered outside his Washington, D. C. , residence on Thursday. Source: MEGAMcConnell has been out of public view for 53 consecutive days and missed 51 roll-call votes. The presence of security and staff fueled heavy online buzz and speculation becauseno one actually witnessed McConnellarriving or being moved back into the house. Observers and journalists noted that despite the high-profile security presence, there wereno public sightings or video confirmationsof the senator himself. Stalwart reporters parked outside the house were unable to get any comment from the staff, who remained silent and scurried off when confronted. McConnell has been out of public view for 53 consecutive days and missed 51 roll-call votes.