Democratic Kentucky Gov. Beshear demands McConnell speak up or resign

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democrat, is demanding that Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., demonstrate his ability to serve by verbally addressing his constituents — or resign from his seat. 

The demands were made in a letter sent to McConnell and his staff on Monday, Axios reported.

"I understand anyone's desire for privacy, but when you run for office and serve as one of a state's two U.S. senators, you willingly abdicate much of your personal privacy. That's the deal, and we all know it when we run," the letter stated. 

Except for pictures his office released of McConnell in the hospital, the senator has not appeared publicly in more than 40 days. Beshear said in his letter that the speculation surrounding McConnell's long absence could be "avoided with the minimal amount of transparency." 

The letter stated a copy was also being sent to Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota. Beshear had previously urged Thune to investigate McConnell's ability to serve. 

McConnell is set to retire when his term ends in January 2027.