Mitch McConnell's political career evolved from a pragmatic moderate in his early years to a staunch conservative, shaping his Senate record on several contentious issues. He was a leading opponent of campaign finance reform, fighting the McCain-Feingold Act and celebrating the 2010 Citizens United Supreme Court ruling that partially overturned it, famously calling the law's signing his "worst political day." His influence also extended to abortion, where his opposition helped culminate in the 2022 Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade. McConnell drew sharp criticism, particularly from Jon Stewart, for repeatedly blocking or delaying health care funding for 9/11 first responders, including voting against the 2010 Zadroga Act and blocking a 2015 replenishment unless unrelated demands were met. Throughout his career, he framed his campaign finance stance as a defense of free speech, a position he held since the 1970s, while critics noted his actions often coincided with campaign contributions.