Why it matters:
Questions about the health of a sitting US president often spark political debate in Washington. Trump’s defensive tone reflects sensitivity within the White House as scrutiny grows over internal disputes and foreign policy missteps.
The big picture:
Trump attributed his strained voice to “shouting at people” during tense discussions with an unnamed country attempting to renegotiate a trade deal.
He refused to identify the country involved, deflecting repeated questions from reporters.
The episode comes amid broader criticism of Washington’s unpredictable foreign policy and Trump’s confrontational approach toward allies and rivals alike.
What they’re saying:
Oval Office exchange:
Journalist:
“Your voice sounds a little rough. Are you feeling alright?”
Trump:
“I feel great. I was shouting at people because they were stupid about something having to do with trade and a country… I blew my stack at these people.”
When pressed about the specific country involved, Trump grew irritated:
Trump:
“Why would I say that to you? I can’t believe it.”
He also misheard a reporter’s follow-up:
“I thought you said there was a polyp. I don’t want to hear that.”
Go deeper:
Trump Says He Would Be ‘Proud’ to Strike Colombia’s Cocaine Facilities
Mojtaba Darabi - Mahboubeh Habibi
