US Senator McConnell says he’s been discharged from rehabilitation centre

Republican senator has not been seen in public since mid-June, sparking criticism of transparency over his condition.United States Senator Mitch McConnell, whose absence from public view has sparked speculation over his fitness to serve, has said he has been discharged from a rehabilitation centre and will continue his recovery from home.The announcement on Thursday came 10 days after McConnell’s last public statement on his condition and as the Senate was set to adjourn for its August recess. Critics have accused the senator and his staff of not being forthcoming about the status of his health.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3US Senate approves Iran war powers resolution: What that means for Trumplist 2 of 3Prolonged hospitalisation of US Republican Mitch McConnell raises questionslist 3 of 3Mitch McConnell releases health update, says he is ‘regaining’ strengthend of listMcConnell has not been seen in public since June 11, and his continued absence has also narrowed the Republican majority in the chamber as lawmakers faced several consequential votes.“Earlier today, I was discharged from the rehabilitation center to continue my recovery at home,” McConnell said, adding he and his wife were “grateful” to those who offered support and medical care.McConnell had previously said he was hospitalised on June 14 after suffering a fall at his home in Washington, DC. His office has since released two photos showing him in the hospital, but has not released any video or audio.The latest statement did not include any new photos of McConnell or other media.“On the advice of my doctors, I’ll maintain an intensive regimen of physical therapy from home during the state work period,” he said, referring to the Senate recess, “and I’ll continue to engage with my staff and colleagues on important Senate business”.The absence of the 84-year-old from legislative business has raised criticism over the advanced age of many elected officials in the US.It has also sparked conspiracy theories, with online influencer and US President Donald Trump ally Laura Loomer among those claiming McConnell’s true condition was being withheld from the public.