"Concerns mount as GOP senators consider 'special' meeting on McConnell's freezing episodes"

Several GOP senators are considering the possibility of holding a special conference meeting to discuss the future of their leadership following Mitch McConnell's recent public freeze-ups. While it takes just five Republican senators to force such a meeting, there are also private lunches available for members to discuss party leadership. McConnell's health is a sensitive subject, and his detractors are aware of the health issues he faces. The question now is whether McConnell's health will accelerate the transition of leadership, which will eventually need to happen. If a special meeting does occur, it could draw significant media attention and amplify the risk of addressing McConnell's leadership. McConnell has not indicated any plans to retire, and his spokesperson stated that he intends to serve out his leadership term through 2024. Minority Whip John Thune, Sen. John Cornyn, and Conference Chair John Barrasso are seen as the most likely successors to McConnell. McConnell's influence in the party is significant, and September will be a crucial test of his leadership as the government faces potential shutdown, disagreements on spending levels, and funding requests for hurricane relief, Ukraine aid, and border security.