Senator Mitch McConnell has been hospitalized since June 14 after a cardiac arrest incident. The 84-year-old Kentucky Senator was reportedly found unconscious in his DC home before being hospitalized.
A former McConnell staffer, Scott Jennings, described a conversation he had with McConnell during an appearance on a cable news network. Jennings claimed that McConnell's voice sounded "strong" during their 17-minute phone call, which covered topics such as Iran, Ukraine, and a visit to the Teddy Roosevelt Library.
However, Jennings' claims about McConnell's health have sparked controversy. A network spokesperson later distanced the network from Jennings' comments, stating that Jennings is not a full-time employee or journalist for the network and that his account of the conversation reflects his personal experience, not official reporting.
There have been conflicting reports about McConnell's current condition. Conservative reporter Laura Loomer claimed that a White House source told her that McConnell is being kept alive with machines and is "brain dead." However, Jennings' account suggests that McConnell is recovering in the hospital and able to engage in conversation.
Jennings reportedly spoke with McConnell over the phone for about 20 minutes, during which time they discussed various topics. When asked if McConnell would be willing to call in to a live show, Jennings laughed off the question, saying it was nice to hear McConnell's voice.
