Washington — President Donald Trump has dismissed a wave of online conspiracy theories that claimed he had died or was seriously ill over the Labor Day weekend, calling the rumors “fake news” and insisting he was active throughout the break.
The speculation grew after Trump made no public appearances for several days — his longest absence since returning to the White House. On social media platforms like X and TikTok, hashtags such as #TrumpIsDead and #WhereIsTrump spread rapidly, with some users pointing to photos of his bruised hand and swollen ankles as evidence of poor health.
Trump resurfaced on Tuesday, mocking the rumors in remarks to reporters. “That’s pretty serious stuff,” he said with a smile, adding that he had spent the weekend golfing, making calls, and posting on Truth Social. “I was very active,” he emphasized.
Still, his reappearance did little to stop speculation. Sharp-eyed critics noted visible bruising on his hand and heavy makeup, fueling renewed chatter online.
The White House has attributed Trump’s visible bruises and swelling to chronic venous insufficiency, a circulatory condition common in older adults. His physician also cited routine aspirin use and frequent handshakes as likely explanations for the discoloration. Medical experts say the condition is generally manageable and not life-threatening.
The episode highlights how quickly misinformation can spread in the social media age — particularly when it concerns the health of a sitting president. While Trump brushed off the rumors, the frenzy underscores ongoing public scrutiny of aging leaders and the transparency demanded around their fitness for office.
