The White House has addressed public curiosity over the adhesive bandages recently spotted on the back of President Donald Trump’s right hand.
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told reporters at a press briefing that the coverings are part of routine care and emphasized that the president remains in good health.
Leavitt noted that minor hand issues can occur, especially for someone with the president’s busy schedule, and that the bandages are intended as a precaution. “We’ve addressed this before,” she said.
She stressed that there is no cause for alarm, adding that Trump’s physical condition has been closely monitored and regularly evaluated by his medical team.
What Contributed to the Bruising?
Leavitt pointed out that Trump is “literally constantly shaking hands”, a practice that has been part of his public persona for decades. She explained that the repeated contact, combined with Trump’s daily aspirin regimen, makes minor bruising more visible.
Credit: Win McNamee/Getty Images.
“His physical examinations have shown in the past that aspirin use can contribute to the bruise that you see,” she added, noting that these factors together account for the appearance of bandages and discoloration on his hand.
Media Attention and Health Speculation
Trump, the oldest president ever elected in US history, has long been attentive to how his health is portrayed in the media. He has repeatedly contrasted his own physical fitness with that of former President Joe Biden, claiming that Biden’s faculties had deteriorated toward the end of his term.
The recent focus on his hand has sparked renewed discussion among media outlets, prompting Trump to respond directly. On Tuesday night, he posted a long statement on his Truth Social platform, describing news organizations’ investigations into his health as potentially “sedition, maybe even treason”.
Recent Medical Reports Confirm Trump in Good Health
In October, Trump underwent a comprehensive medical examination, which included an MRI scan and a full review of his cardiovascular, neurological, and overall physical health, according to BBC News.
His physician reported that the president is in excellent health, offering reassurance amid speculation regarding his fitness to serve.
Donald Trump's hands were pictured bruised earlier this year. Credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images.
The White House has stressed that minor bruising and the use of bandages are not indicative of serious medical concerns. Instead, they are the result of routine physical activity and preventive measures taken by Trump, including his aspirin regimen, which is intended to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Maintaining Transparency While Managing Public Image
Leavitt’s comments highlight the balance the White House aims to strike between transparency about the president’s health and controlling public perception. Officials are keen to remind the public that minor injuries or bandages do not necessarily signal underlying medical problems, particularly for a president who maintains an active public schedule.
As Trump continues to travel and engage with the public, handshakes and other interactions are likely to remain part of his day-to-day routine, and bandages on his hand are expected to persist as a simple precautionary measure rather than a sign of deeper health issues.