US President Donald Trump on Tuesday rejected social media speculation about his health — including rumors of his death — calling it “fake news” during a press conference at the White House.
The 79-year-old president had no public appearances for six consecutive days last week, sparking rumors after images circulated showing his bruised hand and swollen ankles. The hashtag “#trumpdead” trended widely on X, fueling claims of a cover-up by the White House.
When asked by a reporter about the rumors, Trump laughed it off, saying, “Really? I didn’t see that … That’s fake news.” He added that he had simply taken a short break after holding several press events the previous week.
Trump insisted he was active over the Labor Day weekend, saying he spent time playing music in the Rose Garden and golfing. However, his right hand appeared heavily made up during Tuesday’s briefing, as it has in recent appearances.
The White House has attributed Trump’s hand discoloration to tissue irritation from handshaking and aspirin use, while his swollen legs were linked to chronic venous insufficiency — a common but benign condition. Presidential physician Sean Barbabella has repeatedly stated that Trump “remains in excellent health.”
Trump, who began his second term in January, often boasts of his vitality. His comments come amid heightened scrutiny of presidential health, with both he and his predecessor Joe Biden serving as the oldest occupants of the Oval Office in US history.
The 79-year-old president had no public appearances for six consecutive days last week, sparking rumors after images circulated showing his bruised hand and swollen ankles. The hashtag “#trumpdead” trended widely on X, fueling claims of a cover-up by the White House.
When asked by a reporter about the rumors, Trump laughed it off, saying, “Really? I didn’t see that … That’s fake news.” He added that he had simply taken a short break after holding several press events the previous week.
Trump insisted he was active over the Labor Day weekend, saying he spent time playing music in the Rose Garden and golfing. However, his right hand appeared heavily made up during Tuesday’s briefing, as it has in recent appearances.
The White House has attributed Trump’s hand discoloration to tissue irritation from handshaking and aspirin use, while his swollen legs were linked to chronic venous insufficiency — a common but benign condition. Presidential physician Sean Barbabella has repeatedly stated that Trump “remains in excellent health.”
Trump, who began his second term in January, often boasts of his vitality. His comments come amid heightened scrutiny of presidential health, with both he and his predecessor Joe Biden serving as the oldest occupants of the Oval Office in US history.
