The White House is offering a new explanation for President Donald Trump’s visibly bruised hands after fresh photos sparked renewed speculation about his health.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told CBS News that Trump injured his hand during a signing ceremony at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
“At the Board of Peace event today in Davos, President Trump hit his hand on the corner of the signing table, causing it to bruise,” Leavitt said.
The bruise appeared on Trump’s left hand and was not visible at the start of the event, according to images from the ceremony.
The discoloration became noticeable later, fueling questions about whether the injury was connected to a broader health issue.
White House officials also pointed to Trump’s long-standing aspirin use as a contributing factor.
The president has acknowledged that he takes higher-than-recommended daily doses of aspirin, which can cause easier bruising, particularly in older adults.
Trump told the Wall Street Journal earlier this month that he has taken 325 milligrams of aspirin daily for roughly 25 years, despite doctors advising a lower dose.
“They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart,” Trump said. “I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart.”
Medical guidance typically recommends an 81-milligram low-dose aspirin regimen for heart health. Higher doses increase the risk of bruising and bleeding because aspirin prevents blood from clotting efficiently.
The president has admitted he continues the regimen out of personal belief rather than medical advice.
“I’m a little superstitious,” Trump said, adding that he relies on what he calls his “good genetics.”
Beyond aspirin use, Trump has also been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that can contribute to swelling in the legs and increased bruising. The condition previously led him to wear compression socks, though he later stopped because he disliked them, according to the Journal.
Leavitt has previously explained bruising on Trump’s right hand as the result of constant handshaking.
“He shakes hands all day, every day,” she has said, confirming that makeup is often applied to conceal bruises caused by repeated contact.
Photos of Trump in recent months have shown visible cover-up makeup on his right hand during public appearances. The Davos bruise stood out because it appeared on his left hand, which is not typically concealed.
Despite renewed scrutiny, the White House has dismissed concerns that the bruising signals any serious health issue. Officials maintain that Trump remains in good condition and continues to maintain a demanding schedule, per the Daily Mail.
Trump, 79, is the oldest individual to serve as president in U.S. history. His age has kept his health under constant public examination, especially as critics seize on minor physical details.
The White House has insisted the Davos bruise was accidental and routine.
Trump has not indicated any intention to alter his aspirin routine or medical habits, making clear he is comfortable continuing his long-standing approach.
