US Senate Republican leader medically cleared after freezing episode at event

WASHINGTON

US Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell was medically cleared to continue his schedule by the US Capitol physician Thursday after he froze for the second time in two months.

McConnell, 81, appeared to freeze for 30 seconds Wednesday as he attempted to answer a reporter’s question at an event in his home state of Kentucky. He experienced a similar incident at a news conference on Capitol Hill in late July.

In a release, the Congressional attending physician, Brian Monahan, said he had consulted with the senator and conferred with his neurology team.

"After evaluating yesterday’s incident, I have informed Leader McConnell that he is medically clear to continue with his schedule as planned. Occasional lightheadedness is not uncommon in concussion recovery and can also be expected as a result of dehydration," said Monahan.

McConnell made history earlier this year when he became the longest-serving Senate party leader.