Overview

• After several days with no public events around Labor Day, #whereistrump trended and false claims, including death hoaxes, spread across social platforms.
• At a White House press event, Trump dismissed speculation and said he felt great, noting he posted frequently and conducted an extended interview over the weekend.
• Photos of bruised hands and swollen ankles resurfaced, with White House physician Sean Barbarella attributing the bruising to frequent handshakes compatible with aspirin use.
• Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said Trump has chronic venous insufficiency, presented as the explanation for ankle swelling, with no independent medical report released.
• Vice President J.D. Vance told USA Today he is ready to serve if necessary, a remark that, alongside expert concerns about Trump’s speech coherence, fueled debate over fitness and transparency.