US Senator Mitch McConnell says his weeks-long absence from work was prompted by a fall that left him losing consciousness and led to hospitalization. In his first public statement after weeks of speculation, the 84-year-old Kentucky Republican, a former Senate leader, says he was admitted to hospital on June 14. He adds that after the initial incident he also developed “mild” pneumonia. McConnell’s office had previously provided limited information, repeatedly saying he was receiving excellent care while not sharing further medical details, which contributed to uncertainty in Washington and added pressure because Republicans hold a narrow Senate majority. McConnell says he does not plan to return to work “quite yet,” indicating he will resume duties only after he is well enough. Coverage from multiple outlets also notes that his absence led lawmakers and observers to focus on the health challenges associated with an aging Senate membership. Further updates are limited to the information in his statement, and his timing for a return remains undecided.