Overview

• In an Oval Office appearance on Sept. 2, the president said he had heard concerns about his health but called the death claims false.
• He told reporters he had been active over the long weekend and earlier posted on Truth Social that he had never felt better.
• Trump was photographed leaving for his Trump National Golf Club in Virginia on Aug. 30, a sighting widely cited as a proof of life.
• The White House attributes visible bruising and ankle swelling to chronic venous insufficiency, frequent handshakes, and regular aspirin use disclosed in July.
• Speculation intensified after Vice President J.D. Vance said on Aug. 28 he was prepared to assume the presidency in a tragedy, as online engagement topped 1.3 million interactions.