Former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene slammed CNN commentator Scott Jennings on Tuesday, July 7, after he posted that he had spoken by phone with Sen. Mitch McConnell, who has been hospitalized for more than three weeks.
McConnell, 84, was admitted on June 14 after he was found unconscious at his Washington home.
His office has said little about what happened or his current condition beyond brief updates that he is receiving care and continuing to improve.
Greene Questions Jennings’ Account of McConnell Phone Call
In a post on X, Jennings wrote that he spoke with his longtime friend earlier in the morning and that the conversation lasted about 20 minutes.
“He’s still recovering in the hospital,” Jennings said. “We talked for just shy of 20 minutes … about IRAN, UKRAINE, the unfolding situation in MAINE, my visit to the TR Presidential Library, and even a little bit of Senate history. I told him we want to see him back at work as soon as possible.”
Greene responded quickly and mocked Scott Jennings’ claim of a 20-minute phone call with the hospitalized senator as dubious “proof of life.”
“Of course it is the great RINO Republican establishment hack and paid McConnell consultant that comes out with ‘proof of life.’ So pathetic you can’t even make it up,” she posted.
Growing Questions Surround McConnell’s Health
The exchange comes as questions swirl around McConnell’s health and the lack of detailed information from his office.
His staff has said he is working with aides on Senate matters even while hospitalized, but they have not released specifics about his diagnosis or a return date. The Senate is currently in recess.
McConnell stepped down as Republican leader earlier and will not seek re-election in the coming midterm elections in November.
His seat drew interest from several Kentucky Republicans before Rep. Andy Barr, riding an endorsement from President Donald Trump, won the Republican primary.
Also Read: Sen. Mitch McConnell Hospitalized Again
On social media, some users questioned whether McConnell participated in the conversation or if the call was one-sided. Others called for more proof, such as a photo or a recording.
Other Americans believed Jennings’ claim, pointing to similar updates from Senate GOP Leader John Thune, who has also said he spoke with McConnell and described him as engaged.
How the Dispute Reflects Major GOP Divisions
Greene has been a vocal critic of McConnell for years, often labeling him and his allies as part of the Washington establishment that puts old ways ahead of newer conservative priorities.
McConnell is still a symbol of the old guard to many in the America First wing. His influence in the GOP, as well as the quiet support network around him, persists even after he vacated party leadership.
His long career has included high-stakes votes, leadership battles, and plenty of fights with the more populist side of his party.
His current situation, out of sight for weeks, leaves a vacuum that people like Greene are quick to fill with skepticism.
As of Tuesday afternoon, McConnell remained in the hospital. His office reiterated that he is still on a recovery trajectory and that he appreciates the support he is receiving from all Americans.
However, no timeline for release or return to the Capitol has been given.
This is not McConnell’s first health scare. He has had public freezing incidents in the past and other hospital visits, but he has always returned to work.
