In for the second time

just over a month two months

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) appeared to freeze as he answered questions from reporters while standing still for about half a minute at a Kentucky event Wednesday afternoon.

McConnell’s earlier freeze, on July 26, raised concerns about the health of the Republican leader and led to calls for senior politicians such as McConnell and

California

Senator Diana Feinstein

(D-California.)

to step down from leadership positions.

The Republican leader initially appeared unable to hear a reporter’s question on Wednesday.

“What are my thoughts on what?” McConnell asked video that a WLWT reporter posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“I am running for re-election in 2026,” the reporter responded.

“Oh,” chuckled McConnell, before staring blankly into space for about ten seconds.

“Did you hear the question, Senator?” asked an assistant, standing next to him. “Do you want to run for re-election in 2026?”

McConnell stood still for another twenty seconds before clearing his throat

and say

, “OK.” Without answering the first question, huh

Than

took another question from a reporter in the room, speaking slowly.

Last month, McConnell had to be led away from a press chat after stopping mid-sentence and appearing unable to complete his answer.

McConnell is one of many senior officials leading the country. Feinstein, the oldest member of the Senate at age 90, has repeatedly appeared confused and forgetful since returning to the Senate in May after an extended absence while recovering from a severe case of shingles. President Biden, 80, is the oldest president in US history, and if reelected, is expected to stay until age 86. Former President Trump, now 77, is leading early polls for the Republican nomination to challenge Biden in 2024.

McConnell’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

he is a freelancer fyiReporter Special Correspondent Cameron Joseph contributed to this report.