Elaine Chao, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, delivered an acceptance speech at the Aero Club of Washington on July 30, 2026, where she received the Donald D. Engen Trophy for Aviation Excellence. During her 900-word speech, she advocated for Congress to approve $20 billion in funding for air traffic control modernization but did not mention her husband, Mitch McConnell, who has been absent from public appearances since being hospitalized on June 14 after a fall. Chao's speech emphasized the need for bipartisan support in addressing aviation safety and funding. McConnell's office has stated that he is undergoing rehabilitation and is not yet cleared to return to work. Chao faced criticism earlier for traveling to China shortly after McConnell's hospitalization, with her spokesperson asserting that his health did not require her immediate return to the U.S.
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Elaine Chao Delivers Speech Without Mentioning Husband Mitch McConnell
Elaine Chao delivered a speech at the Aero Club of Washington on July 30, 2026, where she discussed the need for funding for air traffic control modernization but did not mention her husband, Mitch McConnell, who is currently in rehabilitation following a fall. Chao's speech called for bipartisan action on aviation safety funding.
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Elaine Chao Snubs Missing McConnell in Lengthy Speech
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Elaine Chao Delivers Speech Without Mentioning Husband Mitch McConnell