# McConnell votes after Senate return

> McConnell votes after Senate return
- Title: McConnell votes after Senate return · Newsweek | Shortify
- Summary: McConnell votes after Senate return McConnell's first Senate vote after three-month absence was decisive for Farm Bill
- Keywords: mitch mcconnell, senate, farm bill, kentucky, republican, congress, health, voting, seahawks, nfl, capitol, senate rules committee
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/mitch-mcconnells-senate-vote-under-scrutiny-after-lengthy-health-absence-12453105
- Published: 2026-09-17T01:24:50+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: mitch mcconnell, senate, farm bill, kentucky, republican, congress, health, voting, seahawks, nfl, capitol, senate rules committee
## McConnell returns to Senate
Senator Mitch McConnell returned to Congress after three months absent due to health concerns.
## First Senate vote
McConnell's first vote after returning was decisive for the Farm Bill, passing 12-11.
## Voting assistance
Video shows McConnell needing help to vote during a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing.
## Health concerns
McConnell disclosed brief unconsciousness and mild pneumonia after a fall at home.
## Rehabilitation
McConnell was in rehab for weeks before returning to Washington in early August.
## Political pressure
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear urged McConnell to resign or prove he could serve.
## Voting impact
Without McConnell, Republicans missed key votes on Agriculture and Appropriations committees.
## Government deadline
Senate faces September 30 government funding deadline with McConnell's role critical.
## Final months
McConnell plans to focus on key votes but may miss routine Senate participation.
## Key takeaway

McConnell's first Senate vote after three-month absence was decisive for Farm Bill