local
McConnell speaks to Republican leaders as speculation swirls about his health, remains hospitalized
By Josh Skluzacek at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC)
· July 7, 2026
· 3 min read
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate’s top two Republicans have spoken individually to Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell, according to aides, as the former GOP leader remains in the hospital more than three weeks after being admitted for undisclosed health issues.
Aides to McConnell have declined to release ...
Key takeaway McConnell, 84, is retiring at the end of his term in January.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
Minneapolis residents may not immediately see the connection between Senator Mitch McConnell's health and their local community, but the ripple effects of his potential absence in the Senate could impact the city's federal funding and policy priorities. As a major urban center, Minneapolis relies on federal support for various initiatives, including transportation projects and social programs. With McConnell's retirement looming and his current health issues, the balance of power in the Senate may shift, potentially altering the trajectory of these initiatives. Locals should keep an eye on how McConnell's situation unfolds, as it may influence the decisions made by Minnesota's own senators and representatives, who often work to secure funding and support for Minneapolis-based projects. The city's stakeholders, from business leaders to community organizers, should be prepared to adapt to any changes in the federal landscape that may result from McConnell's health and eventual retirement.
About this story
Original reporting by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 7, 2026 ·
Source: KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate’s top two Republicans have spoken individually to Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell, according to aides, as the former GOP leader remains in the hospital more than three weeks after being admitted for undisclosed health issues.
Aides to McConnell have declined to release ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 7, 2026 by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Josh Skluzacek at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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