McConnell to announce retirement from the Senate

Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the former majority leader and the most consequential Republican senator of his generation, will announce Thursday he will not seek reelection next year, according to people briefed on his plans.

The announcement is expected in a midday floor speech. It will not come as a major surprise in Washington or his home state: After stepping down as GOP leader last year, he gave few indications he would pursue an eighth term in the Senate.

The news of McConnell’s retirement was described by three people with direct knowledge of the matter. They were granted anonymity to share the news ahead of a formal announcement.

McConnell turned 83 on Thursday. He has recently suffered several health challenges, including a fall taken while leaving the Senate chamber earlier this month that has left him using a wheelchair.

Several Kentucky Republicans, including Rep. Andy Barr, have made moves to prepare to enter the race in anticipation of McConnell’s retirement.