Republican senators and outside advisers are publicly confirming extended, substantive phone conversations with Senator Mitch McConnell while he remains hospitalized, and newly released emergency dispatch audio indicates responders performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation at his Washington residence on the day he was admitted.Senators John Thune and John Barrasso and strategist Scott Jennings each reported lengthy calls covering national security, Senate business and recent Supreme Court developments, and all described McConnell as engaged and substantive during the discussions.McConnell's office says the 84-year-old senator is improving and remains involved with staff on Senate and Kentucky matters during his recovery, while his daughter Porter McConnell removed social posts as speculation spread.Republican leaders have publicly pushed back on claims that McConnell is incapacitated, and lawmakers warn that if he cannot resume duties by the statutory deadline this summer a special election would be required, which could alter the narrow
Senate majority.