Former US President Donald Trump has responded to online rumours claiming that he had died, calling the speculation false and misleading. The 79-year-old leader addressed the matter during a media briefing on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, where he dismissed the viral claims circulating on social media.
Trump explained that he was unaware of the speculation because he spent most of the previous weekend on a private holiday. The rumours began after he was not seen in public for several days, with his last appearance being at a cabinet meeting on August 26. He resurfaced on Saturday, August 30, and later told reporters that he had not paid attention to such claims.
“No, really? I didn’t hear that,” Trump responded when asked by a journalist if he knew about the viral claims of his death. He added that he was aware people had been questioning his health but insisted that the story was exaggerated.
According to American outlets, the theory gained momentum from social media discussions, where users shared images of Trump’s hands and ankles appearing swollen. The online speculation, which attracted millions of views, triggered further conversations about his health and age as the oldest person ever elected president of the United States.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker also weighed in, challenging Trump to share a “proof of life” photo, which drew thousands of reactions online. In response, Trump used his platform, Truth Social, to declare that he had “never felt better in my life.”
Earlier this year, the White House confirmed that Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a circulatory condition that can cause swelling and discomfort in the legs but is not regarded as life-threatening.
Despite the rumours, Trump remains active politically. During his remarks, he criticised sections of the media, accusing them of fuelling conspiracy theories and spreading fake news. He said the episode was another example of how misinformation spreads quickly online, even without official confirmation.
The incident highlights how digital platforms can amplify unverified stories, raising concerns about the speed at which misinformation can shape public perception. While Trump’s clarification may calm the speculation, the episode reflects the challenges public figures face in the era of viral news.
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