US President Donald Trump has dismissed viral social media rumours about his health, telling reporters in the Oval Office that he was “very active” during the Labor Day weekend and describing the claims as “fake news”.
The remarks came after several days in which the president had not been seen in public, sparking speculation online and leading the phrase “Trump is dead” to trend on X. The rumours gained traction after Vice President JD Vance was asked about presidential succession in a recent interview, fuelling further speculation.
Responding directly, Trump also posted on his Truth Social platform on Sunday: “NEVER FELT BETTER IN MY LIFE.”
The White House pool later confirmed the president was photographed playing golf on Saturday morning, and aides said his absence from public view was due to the holiday weekend.
Trump, 79, has faced questions about his health in recent months after repeatedly being seen with visible bruising on his hand, which officials attributed to treatment for chronic venous insufficiency, a vein condition that causes swelling.
The president has insisted he remains fit to serve, telling reporters: “I’m working every day, harder than ever. There is no issue.”