The story

Senator Mitch McConnell remains hospitalized six weeks after a fall at his Capitol Hill home in June, with doctors not yet clearing him to return to the Senate or leave his rehabilitation facility. The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican said Monday he is undergoing intense physical therapy but will miss Saturday's Fancy Farm picnic, an annual state political event he has attended for more than four decades. His office released a photo of him smiling with his wife, former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao.

The Office of the Attending Physician said McConnell is maintaining a strenuous course of physical therapy and rehabilitation, including multiple sessions a day designed to rebuild strength and reduce the risk of future falls. Doctors visit with him every day, discussing all aspects of his rehabilitation care. The statement noted that his bout with childhood polio continues to be a significant factor in his mobility. McConnell was also treated for pneumonia after his hospitalization.

McConnell has missed 38 roll call votes since June, including on the annual defense policy bill, ending the Iran war, and confirmation hearings for nominees like Todd Blanche, who is awaiting a vote to become attorney general. His extended absence has complicated matters for Republicans in the Senate with its small margin, particularly on the Appropriations Committee. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has called for McConnell to publicly demonstrate he is fit to serve, saying the senator has not responded to his requests.