This story was originally published by the WND News Center.

There are fresh calls for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to retire Wednesday after the Kentucky Republican froze for the second time in 35 days, unable to speak when asked a question.

McConnell, 81, stopped in a silent daze for more than 30 seconds after a reporter asked if he would run for re-election during a media gaggle in Covington, Kentucky.

Once it was apparent McConnell had frozen again, an aide approached him to ask, "Did you hear the question, senator?"

McConnell continued his unresponsiveness, clutching firmly to the podium.

When it appeared the senator might be aware again, the aide then asked:

"Somebody else has a question? Please speak up."

A McConnell spokesperson indicated later: "Leader McConnell felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference today."

As WND previously reported, McConnell also froze for some 19 seconds during a news conference on July 26, as concerned staffers finally escorted off the 81-year-old senator.

Meanwhile, comments online reacting to the latest McConnell freeze include:

"He needs to step down."

"SECOND time in 35 days."

"Honestly, this is cruel treatment of older people who are sick. He's not doing well. Yet, his aides tell reporters to speak up like he's frozen he can't hear. Then, she opens it up to more questions from reporters. That's really cruel treatment."

"Why's he still working?"

"Because those in power put him there 🤦‍♂️"

"Did you try turning it off and back on again?"

"Bro is seeing the grim reaper in these crowds."

"I think he was just making a poopie."

"Who is using the lag switch on this simulation?"

"Glitch McConnell is the perfect example of the need for term limits."

"'Glitch McConnell' is the best thing I have seen all day."