Mitch McConnell, top Republican senator, says he wont run for re-election – National [Video]

U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell says he won’t run for re-election next year, signalling the end of one of the most consequential Republican political careers in modern history.

The long-serving Kentucky senator made the announcement in a speech from the Senate floor Thursday, which was also his 83rd birthday.

“Seven times, my fellow Kentuckians have sent me to the Senate,” said McConnell, who was first elected to the upper chamber in 1984. “Every day in-between, I have been humbled by the trust they have placed in me to do their business right here.

“I will not seek this honour an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last.”

McConnell said he intends to serve the remainder of his term ending in January 2027.

“To the disappointment of my critics, I’m still here on the job,” he said.

The senator has experienced several health challenges in recent years, including a fall while …