A public debate continues over whether former Senate Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is alive or dead, but veteran Kentucky reporter Al Cross believes the senator is simply being stubborn.

The speculation has been fueled in part by McConnell's well-documented health episodes: a March 2023 fall at a Washington fundraiser that resulted in a concussion and a fractured rib, followed by two separate incidents weeks apart in which he froze mid-sentence during press events. His office attributed those episodes to dehydration and lingering effects of the concussion, and the incidents had already placed McConnell's fitness and stamina under intense public scrutiny.

Governor Andy Beshear (D-Ky.) has repeatedly requested definitive proof of life from McConnell, arguing that a photograph alone is insufficient given the possibility of editing or artificial intelligence generation. The senator's office has not responded to the governor, and Beshear stated that he has heard nothing from either the office or McConnell directly.

Cross, speaking with CNN's Kasie Hunt, offered his assessment of the situation.

"Well, I said that he cherishes his independence, and he could easily resolve this matter, but you know, he's just being a little cranky and pugnacious here in the twilight of his career," Cross said.

McConnell announced in February 2025 that he would not seek reelection when his current term expires in 2026, closing out a Senate career that began in 1985. He stepped down as Senate Republican Leader in November 2024 after holding the post for nearly two decades, and was succeeded by Senator John Thune (R-S.D.).

Cross noted that McConnell appears determined to handle the situation on his own terms, consistent with a longstanding pattern of guarding his privacy.

"He's always been pretty private about his health and so on," Cross recalled. "So, it's not really a big surprise. You know, I wish he would give us a short video and put all this misinformation to rest. But he's going out the way he wants to go out. I guess you got to give him a little grace for that."

Cross also addressed the political dynamics at play, noting that Beshear faces pressure from the political left to take action despite having no actual authority in the matter. Rather than force the issue, Cross suggested Beshear is effectively letting McConnell "stew in his own juice."

According to Cross, Beshear's only real option to act unilaterally would be to physically go to the hospital to see McConnell in person and then call for a special election.

"It would be silly to try to appoint somebody to a seat that's not vacant, as some people have suggested," Cross said. "So, he's trying to get off the back foot here as a presidential candidate and look forceful. So this is the most forceful talk that we have seen from him yet. And you basically say, put up or resign. Uh, that's very tough."