During a recent interview on Andrew Wilkow’s SiriusXM show, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) criticized Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, saying the longtime senator is no longer mentally fit for office and should be in a nursing home.
The conversation focused on the SAVE Act, a bill aimed at reducing election loopholes Democrats could exploit. Norman argued McConnell is blocking reforms that would help the GOP.
Wilkow asked, “I don’t know if you care to comment on this, but all I’m reading is that McConnell is the one holding up the works here. Why would Mitch McConnell, who in the past promoted voter ID measures, be against this?”
Norman replied, “Well, two things. He hates Donald Trump. Trump Syndrome is alive and well with him. Secondly, he should be in a nursing home. He shouldn’t be in the United States Congress casting votes. And thirdly, he exercises power. And I think he’s beholden to the special interests. And this is politics gone wrong. And this is where term limits have to be in effect to get these people out. And from what I understand, they have a hard time getting him to the floor to vote. I mean, it is kind of basic, being able to get to the floor and vote whether it’s wheelchair or not. But mentally, I don’t think he’s there.”
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Norman also suggested using a “walking filibuster” in the Senate to force Democrats to defend their positions publicly. He said this tactic could prevent obstruction and expose lawmakers unwilling to act.
Candidate for Governor of South Carolina & Congressman for SC-05 @RalphNorman has some strong words for Sen. Mitch McConnell, who is standing in the way of passing the SAVE Act.
“He hates Donald Trump…he should be in a nursing home.” –@RepRalphNorman pic.twitter.com/htZ3PxcpqI— Andrew Wilkow (@WilkowMajority) February 26, 2026
Other Republicans have voiced frustration with McConnell. Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) shared a video of McConnell being assisted around the Senate chamber and wrote on X, “Pass the Save America Act and then let’s talk about some Term Limits.”
Pass the Save America Act and then let’s talk about some Term Limits. https://t.co/8pIQAOrZc2
— Tim Burchett (@timburchett) February 27, 2026
McConnell, 85, holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Senate party leader in U.S. history. Despite grappling with ongoing health challenges, including several hospitalizations and mobility limitations, he is not seeking reelection. He continues to exert considerable authority over the Senate, influencing legislative priorities and controlling critical procedural mechanisms.
This enduring dominance frustrates lawmakers advocating for conservative reforms, term limits, and a more assertive GOP agenda, as many view him as an obstacle to initiatives favored by the party’s current base.
Featured image via X screengrab
