Mitch McConnell, a long-serving Republican Senator, faces the lowest favorability rating in two decades, according to a CNN/SSRS survey. His favorability has plunged to 11%, the lowest recorded since the polling began in 2006. This decline coincides with the senator’s reduced public presence, giving rise to questions concerning his political future and his ability to continue in office after a recent hospital stay.
The senator, who has been part of the U.S. Senate since 1985, has had limited communication regarding his health. Brief updates have been released from his office, yet the absence of detailed medical information has led to increased speculation. Some are advocating for greater transparency, arguing that health issues affecting service capability should be disclosed by elected officials.
According to the poll, McConnell’s unfavorability rating stands at 53%. Meanwhile, 15% of respondents have never heard of him, and 20% express no opinion. Previous polling from October 2023 showed McConnell had a 16% favorability rating and a 58% unfavorability. Historically, McConnell’s favorability hadn’t dropped into the teens before the 2023 poll. It peaked at 32% in December 2010, with an unfavorability of 25%.
The public concern continues as “Missing Mitch McConnell” posters appear in Washington D.C., further fueling debate over his prolonged absence. Newly released photos have also galvanized online discussions about his recovery and public transparency.
Robert Y. Shapiro, a political science professor at Columbia University, commented to Newsweek: “His silence on his health was not well received, as was his absence from the Senate. The indications suggest he should resign, but his motivation to complete his term is driven by honor and the completion of his role, not wanting the state’s governor to appoint a Democrat in his place.”
The CNN poll further reveals the political repercussions of the situation. While McConnell’s favorability is at an all-time low, 59% of Republicans and those leaning Republican express unease or discontent at nominating candidates over 70 years old. However, 41% of respondents would welcome such nominations.
Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky has urged McConnell to provide a fuller account of his health status, asserting that Kentuckians are owed transparency on whether the senator remains able to fulfill his role effectively. Beshear intensified the request with letters to McConnell and Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune, noting the senator has been inactive in Senate votes and legislative duties for more than six weeks.
Beshear also highlighted that U.S. senators “willingly abdicate much of their personal privacy.” McConnell’s office relayed this week that the senator is still recovering from a fall, with daily physical therapy sessions aimed at rebuilding strength and preventing future falls. His childhood polio continues to impact his mobility. McConnell has yet to be cleared to leave the rehabilitation facility.
Under Kentucky law, if McConnell’s seat becomes vacant promptly, a special election could be held this year to fill the term.