ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (WDRB) -- U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, the longest-serving Senate party leader in U.S. history, sat down with business leaders and answered questions from the media during a visit to Elizabethtown on Tuesday.
The event, held at the Elizabethtown Tourism & Convention Bureau, featured a lunch with the Knox Regional Development Alliance before McConnell addressed reporters on topics ranging from his legacy to the future of tariffs.
On his legacy
When asked about his decades-long career in the Senate, McConnell, who will turn 84 next year, reflected on his tenure.
"I've been in the Senate for quite a while. I'll be 84 next year when I leave. I got there when I was 42...you can do the math. I have spent half my life there," McConnell said.
On tariffs and trade
The senator also shared his thoughts on the Trump administration's tariff policies, acknowledging his hope that the president would soon be satisfied with their effectiveness.
"I'm hoping that the president will be satisfied sometime here soon. By the way, this is not a legislative matter; he has authority to do this. We don't get to do anything other than complain...as I just did," McConnell said.
On avoiding war
McConnell offered insight into his approach to foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of a strong defense to deter conflict.
"The best way to avoid war is for your enemies to be afraid of you," McConnell added.
On his successor
The senator was also asked about his successor, noting that the decision should be left to the voters of Kentucky.
Local business leaders reflect on McConnell's visit
Lance O’Bryan, president and CEO of the Knox Regional Development Alliance, praised the productive discussions between local business leaders and McConnell.
"There were 35 people that were here. They had a good discussion with the senator. We talked about everything from the impacts of the continuing resolution...year-long continuing resolution on the national defense authorization act, we talked about the bill he introduced to help protect farmland and we also had more than one person that thanked him for the things that he has done for this region," O’Bryan said.
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