While President Donald Trump spoke to reporters ahead of his visit to Pittsburgh for an economic summit, C-SPAN cameras captured what appeared to be a bruise on his right hand. The small, white discoloration was visible as Trump gestured while responding to a question about the ongoing situation in Ukraine. The president did not mention the mark and continued with his scheduled events without addressing it.
The moment quickly drew attention on social media, where users speculated about the cause. However, the White House has previously explained similar bruises as the result of Trump’s physically active lifestyle. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump frequently engages in firm handshakes, golfing, and long work hours, all of which can contribute to minor injuries or bruising.
“President Trump is a man of the people,” Leavitt told Fox News back in June, after a similar incident involving French President Emmanuel Macron. “His commitment is unwavering, and he proves that every single day.” Trump himself, now 79, told Time magazine that frequent bruising is normal for him, especially given the number of people he meets and greets on a daily basis.
Medical experts support this explanation, noting that bruising becomes more common with age. According to the Mayo Clinic, aging causes the skin to thin and blood vessels to become more fragile. Certain medications, such as blood thinners or corticosteroids, can also increase bruising in older adults.
Meanwhile, a new Quinnipiac University poll shows growing frustration among Democrats. The survey found that 53% of Democratic voters disapprove of their party’s performance in Congress. Overall approval among all voters for congressional Democrats has dropped to just 21%, tying a record low from 2009.
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