Is Mitch McConnell Retiring? All About His Wife, Children & Net Worth!

After nearly four decades in the U.S. Senate, Mitch McConnell has announced that he will not seek reelection in 2026. At 83 years old, the Kentucky Republican is closing the chapter on a career that has shaped American politics in profound ways.

McConnell made the announcement on his birthday, sharing that representing Kentucky since 1985 has been “the honor of a lifetime.” This decision comes shortly after he stepped down from his leadership role in January 2025, passing the torch to Senator John Thune of South Dakota.

But while McConnell’s political career has been widely discussed, his personal life often remains in the background. So let’s take a closer look at Mitch McConnell beyond politics—his family, his wife Elaine Chao, his children, and his impressive net worth in 2025.

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McConnell’s Longstanding Political Legacy

Mitch McConnell has been a dominant force in the Senate for nearly four decades, serving as Senate Majority Leader from 2015 to 2021 and then as the Senate Minority Leader until 2025. Known for his strategic maneuvering and ability to shape the judiciary, McConnell played a key role in confirming three Supreme Court justices during Donald Trump’s presidency.

His decision to step down from leadership in January 2025 signaled a shift in Senate politics. While he will remain in office until his term ends in 2027, his decision to retire marks the end of an era in Republican leadership.

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Mitch McConnell and Elaine Chao:

McConnell’s personal life is just as intriguing as his political career, particularly his marriage to Elaine Chao—a highly accomplished political figure in her own right.

Who is Elaine Chao?

• Born: March 26, 1953, in Taipei, Taiwan
• Immigrated to the U.S.: At age 8
• Education: Harvard Business School
• Career: First Asian-American woman to serve in a U.S. president’s cabinet
• Positions Held:
  • Secretary of Labor (2001–2009) under George W. Bush
  • Secretary of Transportation (2017–2021) under Donald Trump

Chao’s impact on transportation policy and labor laws has been significant, and she remains one of the most influential Asian-American political figures in U.S. history.

How Did McConnell and Chao Meet?

McConnell and Chao first connected in the early 1990s through their mutual networks at the Heritage Foundation. Their relationship quickly developed, and on February 6, 1993, they were married in a private ceremony in New York City.

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A fun fact? Dick Cheney, who was Secretary of Defense at the time (later Vice President under George W. Bush), was McConnell’s best man at the wedding!

McConnell’s Family: His Three Daughters

While McConnell and Chao do not have children together, McConnell is a father of three daughters from his first marriage to Sherrill Redmon.

McConnell and Redmon were married in 1968 and divorced in 1980. Their daughters—Elly, Porter, and Claire McConnell—have largely remained out of the public spotlight.

Unlike their father, McConnell’s daughters have not pursued political careers. Porter McConnell, however, has made headlines for her progressive views, often opposing policies that her father has championed.

Mitch McConnell’s Net Worth in 2025

Over his long career in politics, McConnell has built substantial wealth. As of January 2025, his estimated net worth is $52.01 million, according to the Congress Live Net Worth Tracker.

Where Does McConnell’s Wealth Come From?

While McConnell has earned millions through his Senate salary and investments, a major portion of his wealth comes from his family’s fortune. In 2008, McConnell and Chao received a large financial gift from Chao’s father, James S.C. Chao, a shipping magnate and founder of Foremost Group.

This inheritance significantly boosted McConnell’s financial standing, allowing him to grow his investments and secure his status as one of the wealthiest members of the U.S. Senate.

McConnell’s Salary as a U.S. Senator

As a longtime member of the Senate, McConnell earns a base salary of $174,000 per year. When he served as Senate Majority Leader, his salary was $193,400 per year—a figure that he maintained during his time as Minority Leader.

What’s Next for Mitch McConnell?

With his retirement announcement, the big question is: What’s next for Mitch McConnell?

1. Serving Out His Term Until 2027

Though he won’t seek reelection in 2026, McConnell will continue serving as Kentucky’s senator until January 2027. This means he will still play a role in legislative decisions for two more years.

2. A Potential Memoir?

Many former political leaders choose to write memoirs, and McConnell is no exception. Given his long career and behind-the-scenes political maneuvering, a book from McConnell could be a major bestseller.

3. Political Commentary & Public Speaking

McConnell’s sharp political mind and deep experience make him a likely candidate for political commentary on major networks or at policy think tanks.

4. Spending More Time with Family

After decades in public service, McConnell will likely take time to enjoy life outside of politics with Elaine Chao and their extended family.