U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday dismissed widespread speculation about his health as “fake news,” following several days of public absence that had fueled online rumors and conspiracy theories.
The 79-year-old president, known for his frequent media appearances, had not held any press conferences or public events for several days last week. The silence from the typically high-profile president, combined with his age and recent images showing a bruised hand and swollen ankles, led to growing speculation on social media.
Some users went as far as claiming Trump had died and that the White House was concealing the truth.
“I didn’t see that,” Trump responded when Fox News reporter Peter Doocy jokingly asked during a White House press conference, “How did you find out over the weekend that you were dead?” The president replied simply: “That’s fake news.”
In July, the White House had addressed concerns about Trump’s health, attributing the discoloration on his right hand to “tissue irritation from frequent handshaking” and aspirin use as part of a standard cardiovascular regimen. His swollen ankles were explained as a symptom of chronic venous insufficiency, a benign vein condition where leg veins fail to maintain proper blood flow.
Presidential physician Dr. Sean Barbabella confirmed in a letter at the time that Trump “remains in excellent health.”
Trump has often touted his physical condition and energy levels, with the administration even releasing an image depicting him as Superman. The scrutiny over presidential health has intensified in recent years, particularly as Trump and his predecessor Joe Biden became the two oldest individuals to hold the office in U.S. history.
Trump has repeatedly criticized Democrats for allegedly hiding Biden’s physical and mental decline. Biden, who was 82 when he left office in January, ended his 2024 reelection campaign following a widely criticized debate performance against Trump.
As Trump eyes a second term, questions about age and health remain a central issue in the political landscape—on both sides of the aisle.
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