US President Donald Trump has publicly addressed growing scrutiny over his physical condition, offering explanations for visible bruises on his hand and firmly rejecting claims that he dozes off during official events.
Addressing the Bruises and Health Scrutiny
In an interview published on Thursday, January 1, the 79-year-old president defended his health as "perfect." He expressed clear frustration with the ongoing attention paid to his well-being. Trump, who is the oldest person ever to assume the US presidency, has long cultivated an image of vigor through constant media and social media presence, even appearing in AI-created memes as a superhero. However, the first year of his second term has brought renewed focus on this topic.
Observers have frequently noted persistent bruising on Trump's right hand, which is often covered with heavy makeup or bandages. Swelling has also been seen at times around his ankles. The president provided a straightforward explanation for the hand marks: daily aspirin use. "I don't want thick blood pouring through my heart," he stated, explaining he takes the medication to thin his blood. He added that he uses cover-up or bandages whenever his hand gets "whacked."
Clarifications and Corrections on Medical Details
Trump also corrected a previous statement about his medical scans. He had earlier told reporters he underwent an MRI scan in October but did not know what was analyzed. In the new interview, he clarified it was actually a CT scan. His personal doctor confirmed this, stating the CT scan was performed to rule out any cardiovascular problems.
Offering a specific anecdote, Trump attributed one cut on his hand to an incident involving former Attorney General Pam Bondi. He claimed she struck the back of his hand with her ring while giving him a high-five.
Denying Claims of Sleeping During Engagements
The president forcefully dismissed allegations that he falls asleep during public meetings. These claims gained traction after moments, like a televised Oval Office meeting in November with health representatives, where he appeared to struggle to keep his eyes open. This attention is heightened by Trump's own history of labeling his predecessor, Joe Biden, as "sleepy." Biden left office at 82, holding the record as the oldest president, which Trump is on track to surpass during his current term.
"I have never been a heavy sleeper," Trump asserted, suggesting such moments are misinterpreted. "I'll just close. It's very relaxing to me," he explained, adding that photos appearing to show him napping are often just poorly-timed images of him blinking.
Trump's lifestyle, which includes rare exercise outside of golf and an admitted fondness for fast food, continues to be a point of discussion alongside these recent health clarifications.
