Trump Denies Knowing Death Rumors After Weeklong Absence

President Donald Trump addressed and dismissed recent social media rumors about his death that circulated after he went a few days without public appearances over Labor Day weekend. He called the speculation "fake news" and criticized the media for its lack of credibility, noting that his absence was only two days compared to former President Joe Biden's longer periods without public engagements, which did not provoke similar rumors. Trump emphasized that he had a very active holiday weekend, including multiple public appearances the previous week and time spent at his golf club. White House officials previously clarified that his visible bruises and swollen ankles were due to minor medical conditions, with his physician confirming he remains in excellent health. The president also mocked the rumors, stating he was unaware of the extent of the false reports and highlighting his ongoing activity and stamina despite his age. This episode underscores the heightened scrutiny on the health of the nation's oldest presidents, Trump at 79 and Biden at 82 when he left office.