President Donald Trump has finally addressed the wave of speculation over his health following several days away from the public eye.
The 79-year-old president dismissed the rumours as baseless, describing them as “fake news” and insisting that he remains in strong health.
At a White House event on Tuesday, where he announced the new headquarters for Space Command, Trump fielded questions about the claims circulating on social media.
Fox News reporter Peter Doocy jokingly asked, “How did you find out over the weekend that you were dead? Did you see that?” The question drew chuckles from lawmakers and officials present, while Trump, shaking his head, firmly denied the rumours.
“I knew they were saying, like: ‘Is he OK? How is he feeling? What’s wrong?’” Trump said. “But I was very active over the weekend.”
He added that he was unaware of the more extreme rumours about his supposed death until aides mentioned it to him.
Trump’s recent appearance came after days of speculation triggered by his noticeable absence from public engagements.
Online users shared photos of him with visible bruises on his right hand and swelling around his ankles, fuelling claims of a serious health issue.
The White House clarified that Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that affects blood circulation in the legs and is relatively common in older adults.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained that the bruising resulted from “frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin,” a medication Trump takes daily to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
She assured the public that the president continues to maintain a full schedule and remains medically fit.
During his time away from public appearances, Trump stressed that he remained active on social media and in interviews.
Trump on his Truth Social platform, wrote what he described as “long Truths” and “pretty poignant Truths.”
On Sunday, he even declared in capital letters: “NEVER FELT BETTER IN MY LIFE.”
This is not the first time Trump’s health has come under scrutiny.
In 2015, during his first campaign, he released a doctor’s note declaring he had “extraordinary” stamina and would be the “healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency.” That claim was widely criticized as exaggerated.
Later, in 2020, his COVID-19 hospitalization raised concerns after details about his oxygen levels and treatment were initially withheld.
As the oldest man ever elected president of the United States, Trump faces constant questions about his physical fitness.
His team insists he is capable of handling the demands of office. Still, the recurring speculation highlights the intense public and political focus on the health of aging leaders.