Americans' expectations of political officials are already dangerously low, but they don't expect politicians to be immune from illness or personal emergencies. They do, however, expect them to be transparent.

Yet when some elected officials disappear for weeks or months with little communication, it sends the message that they're accountable to no one − not even the voters who put them in office.

The sudden disappearance of 84-year-old Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky − and accompanying radio silence from his inner circle − demonstrates this well.

What's happening with Sen. Mitch McConnell?

The former Senate Majority Leader has been hospitalized since June 14, but McConnell, his family and his office have not explained why, how he is doing or when he will return to Senate duties − if, at all.

Finally, after almost a month-long absence, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear asked McConnell's office to communicate.

"As Governor, I request that you fully update Kentuckians regarding the current status of your health," Beshear wrote July 8.

You know it's an issue when the governor starts asking questions.

McConnell's wife's activities have added even more questions to the mystery. A former Cabinet member for Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump, Elaine Chao just returned........

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