Mitch McConnell: Quick Facts

News •

Kentucky US Senate race called for Andy Barr • Nov. 3, 2026, 9:23 PM ET (The Lousiville Courier-Journal)
Former President Barack Obama endorses Charles Booker in U.S. Senate race • Nov. 2, 2026, 2:01 AM ET (The Lousiville Courier-Journal)
McConnell rips recent Trump Russia-Ukraine moves as 'certain to fail' • Oct. 26, 2026, 4:02 PM ET (The Lousiville Courier-Journal)

American politician Mitch McConnell began his first term representing Kentucky in the U.S. Senate in 1985. A Republican, he served as majority whip (2003–07) and minority leader (2007–15), and he became majority leader in 2015.

Facts

Also Known As Addison Mitchell McConnell, Jr.
Born February 20, 1942 (age 84) • Tuscumbia • Alabama
Title / Office United States Senate (1985-), United States
Political Affiliation Republican Party
Notable Family Members son of Addison Mitchell McConnell • son of Julia Odene “Dean” Shockley McConnell • married to Elaine Chao (1993–present) • married to Sherrill Redmon (1968–1980) • father of Elly • father of Claire • father of Porter
Education University of Louisville (B.A.) • University of Kentucky (J.D.)

Top Questions

When was Mitch McConnell born?
McConnell was born on February 20, 1942, in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Who is Mitch McConnell's wife?
In 1993 McConnell married Elaine Chao, who later served as secretary of labour under Pres. George W. Bush and secretary of transportation under Pres. Donald Trump. McConnell was previously married (1968–80) to Sherrill Redmon, with whom he had three children.
Is Mitch McConnell a Republican?
Yes. McConnell was the first Republican since 1968 to win a statewide election in Kentucky.

Did You Know?

  • McConnell was the second Kentucky senator to serve as Senate majority leader.

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