Elaine Chao’s Trip to China Amid McConnell’s Hospitalization

Elaine Chao, former Transportation Secretary, traveled to China while her husband, Senator Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., remained hospitalized. Despite swirling rumors about his condition, Chao’s spokesperson informed Fox News Digital that it did not necessitate her immediate return.

‘The secretary was on a long-planned trip in China to support her family’s philanthropic endeavors,’ the spokesperson stated. ‘During the trip, she met several people, including the U.S. ambassador. The Senator’s health did not demand an urgent return to the U.S.’

Chao has since returned to the United States, while McConnell continues his hospital stay, now entering the third week. Details on his condition and the timeline for his Senate return remain undisclosed. At 84, McConnell is the longest-serving Senate Republican leader. Speculation about his health has proliferated online.

Laura Loomer, a conservative commentator, alleged that an anonymous source claimed McConnell was ‘brain dead’ and would not return. The White House offered no comment on these assertions. Leaked emergency dispatch audio from June 14, when McConnell was hospitalized, indicated he was ‘unconscious’ and possibly experienced a heart attack.

Asked about Loomer’s claims, McConnell’s office reiterated a previous statement to Fox News Digital.

Senator McConnell appreciates the support as he continues his recovery in the hospital. He is improving and working with staff on Kentucky and Senate matters during the Senate’s recess, a McConnell spokesperson noted.

Senate Republican leaders are actively working to quell rumors. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., and Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso, R-Wyo., confirmed recent phone conversations with McConnell. Thune’s spokesperson reported a significant exchange on Monday, discussing topics like national security.

Barrasso’s spokesperson, Kate Noyes, shared details of their conversation early Tuesday. Their discussion lasted around 20 minutes, touching on Senate races, the Graham Platner scandal, and a recent Supreme Court ruling on spending limits.

They discussed the Senate’s July schedule, the need to pass the NDAA, and the confirmation of President Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, Noyes said. Senator McConnell was completely engaged and eager to return to the Senate, she added.

Alex Miller is a Fox News Digital writer covering the U.S. Senate.