Questions about Sen. Mitch McConnell’s health and whereabouts are mounting again after his wife, former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, appeared to change how she uses social media.

While the Kentucky Republican remains largely out of sight more than six weeks after a fall that sent him to the hospital, his wife, Chao, 73, returned to X on Thursday to share news of an aviation award.

Chao’s post showed replies were limited. X displayed the notice, “Only some accounts can reply,” indicating she has restricted who can respond. The Daily Beast reported that the same setting appeared on her July 3 and 15 posts, and that the last time her replies appeared to be open to the public was June 21. It comes after McConnell grinned in a new proof of life photo after he was accused of hiding a tiny detail in the first hospital photo..

• Melania Trump’s absences in full as her assistant finally reveals what she’s been up to

• Reflecting Pool track marks revealed in new aerial shots after Trump’s motorcade error

The change is notable as it comes while McConnell has remained largely out of public view for weeks after his hospitalization. During that period, questions about his health and his ability to perform official duties have continued, and the Daily Beast noted that some critics have called for additional confirmation and updates, including demands described as “proof of life.”Her post read, “Honored to attend @AeroclubDC lunch yesterday to accept the Donald D. Engen Trophy for Aviation Excellence.” She added, “Grateful for a career in public service that enabled me to advance the safety and future of American aviation. Congratulations to this year’s scholarship recipients!”

The post included multiple photos of Chao smiling for the camera in an all-purple outfit, with her hair styled in a way that appeared lighter and fuller than in earlier public images.

Chao’s last post that appeared to have open comments to the public came on June 21, exactly one week after McConnell was hospitalized. That day, she shared a Father’s Day tribute to her father, Chinese-American businessman James Chao, writing, “Happy Father’s Day to my father! His many challenges in life give inspiration to so many others in braving their own lives.”

McConnell’s hospitalization dates back to June 14, when emergency responders were called and he was taken for treatment after suffering a heart attack.

Reports have indicated the situation was serious, with sources suggesting he underwent CPR. Medical experts have warned that when heart attack patients require CPR, recovery can be prolonged and difficult, particularly for older patients or those with underlying health issues.

At the time, McConnell’s office sought to tamp down concerns, saying, “Senator McConnell appreciates the outpouring of support he’s receiving while he continues his recovery in the hospital.

The Senator continues to improve, and is working closely with his staff on Kentucky and Senate matters while the Senate is out of session.” Even so, the lack of frequent public appearances has kept questions alive, and Chao’s decision to limit social media replies is now being viewed by some as another sign of how sensitive the moment has become.