Republicans Say Mitch McConnell's Been 'Fully Engaged' on 'Lengthy' Phone Calls Today amid Viral Rumors About His Condition

Republicans Say Mitch McConnell's Been 'Fully Engaged' on 'Lengthy' Phone Calls Today amid Viral Rumors About His Condition. McConnell's staff have only offered vague statements about his condition since he was hospitalized on June 14, meanwhile the internet has been running wild with an uncorroborated rumor that he is "brain dead."

As rumors about Mitch McConnell's health continue to circulate and his staff declines to offer detail on his condition, some top Republicans are saying they've recently spoken with the Kentucky senator and he's doing well.

The Kentucky Republican's office had already disclosed that he was admitted to the hospital that same day, but still has not divulged anything about the reason for his three-week stay or the prognosis he has received.

This week, rumors about his condition -- largely fueled by a viral, uncorroborated claim from MAGA activist Laura Loomer that the senator is "officially brain dead" -- led to widespread online speculation about whether McConnell is still alive.

Responding to the conspiracy theories on Tuesday, July 7, some top Republican lawmakers and one prominent former McConnell adviser are defending the Kentucky senator, claiming they spoke to him as recently as Tuesday morning and he is coherent about policy topics and current events.

Barrasso's communication director, Kate Cooksy Noyes, said in her statement, "Senator Barrasso and Senator McConnell had a lengthy conversation early this afternoon. Their phone call lasted roughly 20 minutes. Senator McConnell was fully engaged and is eager to get back to the Senate."

Further complicating the McConnell mystery is the fact that his wife, Elaine Chao, reportedly traveled to China three days after he was hospitalized.