US Senator Mitch McConnell said he was returning home on Thursday after nearly two months in hospital and rehabilitation, as the 84-year-old's extended absence strains a tight Republican majority.

The former Republican Senate leader was hospitalised in mid-June, but speculation about his condition swirled for weeks as his office provided no further details.

The veteran lawmaker from Kentucky finally broke his silence on July 12, saying he had been treated for a fall and loss of consciousness, and had since been moved to a rehab facility.

He also revealed that he had developed a minor case of pneumonia while in hospital.

In a statement Thursday, McConnell said he had finally been "discharged from the rehabilitation centre to continue my recovery at home."

"On the advice of my doctors, I'll maintain an intensive regimen of physical therapy from home during the state work period," he said, referring to the Senate's August recess.

He apparently will miss key votes this week before the recess, including on the confirmation of US President Donald Trump's pick for US attorney general.

Several Republican senators have expressed concerns about Trump's nominee Todd Blanche -- who is the president's former personal lawyer – raising the possibility that the vote will be delayed.

McConnell did not say if he would make his Senate return when the chamber reconvenes in September.

He is not seeking reelection and is due to retire in January. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong