Beshear Slaps Mitch McConnell With Ultimatum as Questions About His Health Linger: Speak Up or Resign

(Timothy D. Easley/AP photo)

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear (D) hit ailing Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) with an ultimatum in his latest demand for transparency about the current state of his health.

In a new letter sent to McConnell on Tuesday, Beshear’s ultimatum is simple: Speak up, or resign.

The letter comes a day after McConnell’s office released a new proof-of-life photo of the senator alongside his wife, Elaine Chao, and a vague update.

“It has now been 43 days since news of your hospitalization, ” Beshear writes. “During that time you have cast zero votes, engaged in no official activities, and aside from two photos and corresponding statements, have made no effort to communicate with your Kentucky constituents or the nation.”

It went on: “I am calling on you to directly and verbally address the people of Kentucky and provide proof of your capacity to serve, or resign.”

In a scathing final blow, Beshear said he would ask Senate Majority Leader John Thune to “begin the process” of expelling McConnell from the Senate.

“If you are unwilling to voluntarily show that you still have the capactity to serve, I will insist Leader Thune fully investigate your condition, report to the American people, and begin the process if warranted,” the governor wrote.

A message left for McConnell’s office was not immediately returned on Tuesday.

It’s the second time this month Beshear has demanded answers from McConnell. In the first, dated July 8, Beshear said: “As Governor, I request that you fully update Kentuckians regarding the current status of your health.”

He added: “As public officeholders, we have made a commitment to our constituents to do our best to represent them and to always be transparent. I believe this requires clear communication about one’s ability to serve.”

In response to that letter, McConnell’s office released the following statement: “Senator McConnell appreciates the outpouring of support he’s receiving while he continues his recovery in the hospital. The Senator continues to improve, and is working closely with his staff on Kentucky and Senate matters while the Senate is out of session.”

McConnell, 84, was rushed to the hospital on June 14 after he was reportedly found unconscious in his home.

Despite two proof-of-life photos and several Republican figures who claim to have spoken with McConnell since, speculation over his condition has continued to swirl across social media.

Earlier this month, President Donald Trump said he hasn’t talked to McConnell and has “no idea how he’s doing.”

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