People are pointing out President Trump's reaction after a guest collapsed next to him during a White House press conference.
A sudden and unexpected moment occurred on Thursday (November 6) at a White House press conference, which was meant to announce a groundbreaking deal aimed at lowering the cost of weight-loss drugs.
The 79-year-old was sitting at the Resolute Desk to unveil the new plan, which will significantly cut the prices of popular obesity treatments, Zepbound and Wegovy, for Americans on Medicare and Medicaid.
The new pricing agreement, forged with drugmakers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, is expected to reduce monthly costs for these subscription-based drugs to an average of $149 to $350, offering relief to many Americans who have voiced concerns over the high price tag of these medications.
However, attention quickly shifted from the policy announcement to a medical emergency unfolding in front of the cameras.
The man, who was a guest of one of the attending health care companies, collapsed behind the president during the press conference.
As the man began to fall, two others nearby caught him before he hit the ground. Dr. Mehmet Oz, who was in attendance, rushed to his aid alongside the White House Medical Unit.
Trump’s frozen reaction sparks debate
As medical personnel tended to the fallen guest, social media quickly exploded over President Trump’s reaction - or lack thereof.
While others rushed in to help, he stood frozen in place, facing the audience, as first aid was administered. In one striking photo, the president is captured simply staring forward, seemingly detached from the chaos around him.
This moment was widely shared online, with many users reacting to the image. One user on X remarked: “doing nothing while someone is collapsing. Seems similar to what he is doing to the U.S."
Another chimed in: "This is disgraceful, and he should be embarrassed. But of course, Trump does not have an empathetic bone in his body."
A third user on Reddit said: "Just replace the guy on the floor with America, and we have the perfect painting for 2025.” And a fourth posted: “Not one ounce of concern on his face for the man who just collapsed in front of him."
Despite the viral reaction, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the guest was okay.
She explained in a statement: “During the Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement, a representative with one of the companies fainted. The White House Medical Unit quickly jumped into action, and the gentleman is okay. The Press Conference will resume shortly," per The Independent.
Later, reporters were allowed back into the room, and Trump reassured the press that the man was “fine.” Eli Lilly’s CEO, David Ricks, also weighed in, confirming that the guest was recovering and doing well.
"If you've ever been in the Oval Office, you stand a long time and it’s warm," Ricks explained, per ABC News. "I’m pleased to say that the White House medical staff did a great job, and he’s doing great, so nothing to be concerned about. Thanks for your concern.”