VIDEO: Trump dismisses health rumors as 'fake news'

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday brushed aside mounting speculation about his health, dismissing social media rumors as “fake news” during a press conference at the White House.

Trump, 79, had not scheduled public appearances for several days last week, fueling questions about his condition. Images showing his bruised hand and swollen ankles further fueled speculation, with some online users even suggesting he had died and that the White House was hiding it.

Asked jokingly by Fox News reporter Peter Doocy, “How did you find out over the weekend that you were dead?” Trump replied, “I didn’t see that… That’s fake news.”

The White House has previously attributed the discoloration on Trump’s hand to tissue irritation from frequent handshakes and aspirin use, while his swollen legs were said to be the result of chronic venous insufficiency, a benign condition in which damaged veins impair blood flow.

Presidential physician Sean Barbabella reiterated in July that Trump “remains in excellent health,” despite the condition. The president himself has frequently boasted of his fitness and energy, with his administration even circulating an image portraying him as Superman.

The health of US presidents has long been a subject of scrutiny, but the issue has gained added weight in recent years, with Trump and his predecessor Joe Biden being the two oldest men to occupy the Oval Office. Biden, 82 when he left office in January, was forced to abandon his 2024 reelection bid after a widely criticized debate performance against Trump.