When Senator Mitch McConnell wanted to address concerns about his health, he consulted Dr. Brian P. Monahan, the on-site physician in the Capitol. Dr. Monahan issued a statement dismissing various medical theories about McConnell’s condition, drawing criticism from some medical experts. The role of the attending physician of Congress is politically complex, with ethical dilemmas arising from the need to balance medical duties with political considerations. Some medical professionals disputed Monahan’s findings and criticized his assertion that McConnell’s issues were due to dehydration. Although the attending physician works directly for congressional leaders, the office operates with minimal public scrutiny. Congress funds the office, and members use the attending physician’s medical advice depending on the political climate. Lawmakers often release statements from the attending physician to dispel rumors or address concerns about their health. Such statements typically maintain that the politician is in good health. The role of the attending physician lacks transparency, leading to calls for more information to be made available to the public. Dr. Monahan has garnered both trust and criticism, particularly for his handling of public health measures during the pandemic. Republicans criticized his advice on mask mandates, and one lawmaker introduced a bill to increase oversight of the attending physician role.