President Donald Trump has attributed the mystery of bruises on his hands to his long-term use of aspirin, dismissing ongoing speculation about his health as unfounded. In a comprehensive interview with The Wall Street Journal, published on January 1, 2026, Trump addressed concerns regarding his visible bruises, which have sparked debate about his health as he enters the second term of his presidency at the age of 79.
In the interview, Trump revealed that he takes a daily dose of 325 milligrams of aspirin, significantly higher than the commonly recommended low dose of 81 milligrams. He claims that this higher dosage, which he has maintained for 25 years, helps him achieve “nice, thin blood” and is part of a personal health routine he is reluctant to change. Trump characterized his aspirin use as a matter of superstition, stating, “I don’t want thick blood.”
Medical experts note that while low-dose aspirin is often prescribed for cardiovascular protection, higher doses can lead to increased risks of bleeding and bruising, particularly in older individuals. Trump’s admission has reignited discussions about the need for transparency regarding presidential health as critics argue that the visible bruises, compounded by earlier instances of swollen legs, raise questions about his overall fitness for office.
Trump’s hand bruises have become a focal point of political discourse, especially following reports of chronic venous insufficiency diagnosed by the White House physician. This condition, common in older adults, impairs blood flow from the legs to the heart. The president also clarified that a previous diagnostic imaging procedure he mentioned, initially referred to as an MRI, was actually a CT scan performed at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center as part of routine cardiovascular evaluation.
In his defense, Trump insisted that his health is “perfect,” a claim he has consistently made since late 2025. He emphasized his vigorous work schedule and attributed moments of apparent fatigue in public meetings to normal behaviors such as blinking or resting his eyes. Despite these assertions, independent experts have pointed out that symptoms like easy bruising and swelling, often associated with aging and medication, necessitate greater transparency from leaders regarding their health conditions.
The interview drew immediate reactions from both supporters and critics. Supporters praised Trump’s openness and downplayed the significance of the bruises, framing them as trivial compared to his demanding schedule. Critics, however, argued that the situation emphasizes the importance of clear communication about presidential health, suggesting that failure to disclose might conceal more serious issues.
As speculation around Trump’s health persists, especially following recent observations of new bruising, calls for comprehensive reporting on medical conditions and medications are likely to intensify. Political opponents have suggested stricter requirements for health disclosures from presidential candidates, asserting that visible symptoms could obscure more significant health concerns.
In navigating this controversy, Trump’s combative style, which blends personal anecdotes with dismissive rhetoric, continues to resonate with his base. The debate surrounding his health and the implications of his aspirin regimen underscores the broader narratives about fitness for office, transparency, and public trust that are increasingly central to political discourse as the year unfolds.
As Trump seeks to quell speculation through his recent explanations, the discussion surrounding his health remains a defining element of the political landscape in 2026.
