A viral video of Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell abruptly falling has been circulating on social media as the Senate prepared to vote on measures related to the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 16th day.
The footage shows the 83-year-old senator walking when a member of the Sunrise Movement, a political activist group, a girl named Stella, asks him a question about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). As the senator reaches for the arm of what appears to be an aide or security personnel, he loses his balance and falls.
He was quickly helped to his feet, gave a wave, and walked away with assistance. When contacted for comment, his office told WLKY: “The question, however, remained unanswered. He’s all good.” Mitch is currently 83 years old, and he’s the longest-serving senator in Kentucky’s history, having served as leader of the Senate Republican Conference from 2007 to 2025.
BREAKING: Sen. Mitch McConnell just fell while walking in the Russell Senate Office Building basement.
pic.twitter.com/nUFmXKbsST
— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) October 16, 2025
According to Fox News, Mitch McConnell has experienced several health setbacks and falls in recent years including another fall at the Capitol in February. That same month, he announced he would not seek re-election. He is a survivor of polio, which is a condition caused by the poliovirus that damages the motor neurons in the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, spasms, and irreversible paralysis.
While there is no cure for polio, childhood vaccination can prevent it, and symptoms can be managed with physical therapy and supportive care. Mitch McConnell’s current term ends in January 2027.
After the clip of him falling went viral, several online users were concerned about him. Many commented that he was not fit to be in office, and it’s high time he stepped down. “he’s got like 7 more months maximum,” wrote @jordanr.
“We need age limits for every elected and appointed official, plain and simple. If people want to continue serving their country past that limit, they can do so in advisory positions,” wrote another. “Christ man…retire. Go away”. Last one just said, TERM LIMITS FOR GODS SAKE !!!
Just like McConnell, Donald Trump has also been deemed unfit several times at 79. He has also been diagnosed with a vein issue followed by knock knees. His frequent delusional statements while talking to the press, lack of energy during meetings, and slurred speech have convinced people that POTUS is physically and mentally unfit to serve in office, despite his health checkup reports claiming his vitals are perfect.
Christ man…retire. Go away.
— Sports and Politics (@LeftSideStrong5) October 16, 2025
Regardless, media reports claim that Donald Trump is still eyeing another term in rule. Presently, the 22nd Amendment of the American Constitution states that “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” This act was enacted in 1951 after former President Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected four times.
However, if the rules get changed, he shall be able to run for another term. But the real question is, will he still be alive and capable? Trump might pass away before being able to amend the Constitution to run for a third term. Most of the government officials in America are older than we would expect.
Figures like President Joe Biden (82), Senate leader Bernie Sanders (84) and Senator Chuck Grassley (91) are still in office today. Critics argue that this ageing political class is increasingly out of touch with younger generations, yet Congress prefers senior candidates in power.
Many voters also choose familiarity over change, and those who stick around for an extended period hence have a better chance of having a more successful career.
