Trump Dismisses Health Rumors as ‘Fake News’
US President Donald Trump has denied widespread online speculation about his health following his brief absence from public view and the appearance of a bruise on his right hand. At a press conference, Trump, 79, called the rumors “fake news” and said he was “very active” over Labor Day weekend, golfing and doing media interviews.
The White House attributed the bruise to frequent handshaking and aspirin use. Trump’s doctor confirmed he has chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition in older adults.
Despite Trump’s public appearance, conspiracy theories circulated online — including claims he had died, based on out-of-context photos, old ambulance images, and AI-altered pictures. The hashtag “#TrumpDead” trended on social media, with over 100,000 mentions.
Critics pointed to his limited public schedule and past secrecy about his health, while others cited misleading images, such as a flag at half-staff (lowered in honor of school shooting victims) or a trash bag tossed from a White House window (explained as maintenance).
Vice President JD Vance said he’s confident Trump is in good health but is “prepared” if needed. Trump himself joked about the rumors and said on Truth Social, “NEVER FELT BETTER IN MY LIFE.”
The White House dismissed the rumors as politically motivated. Still, the speculation highlights how quickly misinformation spreads online—especially when it involves a figure as polarizing as Trump.
