The US Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell has appeared to freeze for more than 30 seconds during a public appearance, months after a similar incident sparked concern for his health.

When asked if he would run for re-election on Wednesday, the 81-year-old Kentucky Republican stopped and stared, before being asked: “Did you hear the question, senator?”

Mr McConnell continued to be unresponsive before coming round and briefly responding to another question.

It comes after the senator froze mid-sentence and stared vacantly for about 20 seconds during a press conference in July.

After approaching the podium for his weekly press conference and speaking about the annual defence funding bill, he appeared to lose his train of thought and trailing off with a drawn-out “uh”.

After refocusing, Mr McConnell brushed off a question he was asked about former President Trump – another that had to be repeated to him – and left the conference.

Questions were being asked about the state of Mr McConnell’s health after his speech has become more halting.