Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell experienced another fall on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, as he left the Senate chamber following a confirmation vote. The 82-year-old Kentucky Republican, who has dealt with the effects of polio since childhood, stumbled on a short flight of stairs. Senators Steve Daines of Montana and Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma were nearby and quickly assisted him.

A spokesperson for McConnell stated that the senator is doing well and that the incident will not affect his work schedule. However, as a precaution, he is currently using a wheelchair. This fall marks the latest in a series of similar incidents for McConnell in recent years.

In December 2024, McConnell fell while leaving a Senate GOP luncheon. Although the incident was not witnessed by reporters, he was seen using a wheelchair afterward. At the time, his spokesperson indicated that he had sustained a minor facial cut and a sprained wrist but was cleared to continue his duties.

A more serious fall occurred in 2023 at a Washington, D.C. hotel during a Senate Leadership Fund dinner. This incident resulted in a concussion and fractured ribs, requiring hospitalization for observation and treatment. He was later discharged and completed inpatient physical therapy.

In July 2023, McConnell experienced a concerning episode during a press conference where he appeared to freeze mid-sentence, prompting colleagues to check on his well-being. These health challenges contributed to McConnell's decision in early 2024 to announce he would not seek re-election as Republican leader for the next congressional term. Senator John Thune of South Dakota succeeded him in November, marking the end of McConnell's 17-year tenure as the longest-serving party leader in Senate history.