Mitch McConnell: “I want to commend you for that decision. I don't think you could have picked a better person to do it.”

Elaine and I are grateful for the many well wishes and support from friends, colleagues, and Kentuckians, and for the attentive care I've received from excellent doctors, nurses, therapists, and hospital staff.

But, my, how times have changed. Today, western Kentucky is a conservative Republican sea of red.

So I hate that I’ll miss the fun this year, but I’m sending my best wishes to the St. Jerome community for a successful picnic.

I'll maintain an intensive regimen of physical therapy from home during the state work period, and I'll continue to engage with my staff and colleagues on important Senate business.