Undercurrents “TRUMP DEAD”? How conspiracies about the president went viral
Sep 2, 2025
The podcast dives into the viral rumor that Donald Trump was dead, sparked by social media frenzy. It dissects how his absence and Melania's sightings fueled speculation, revealing the dangerous allure of conspiracy theories. Insights from journalists help debunk misinformation while discussing the power of digital narratives and media responsibility. The exploration reveals how fragmented truths can distort public perception, reminding listeners of the rapid spread of rumors in the digital age.
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How A Single Sighting Sparked A Viral Rumor
- Social media amplified a single unverified sighting into a viral 'Trump dead' rumor.
- Visible health signs and an unusually light public schedule made the conspiracy feel plausible.
Melania Sighting At Walter Reed
- A vet tech student, Coral Ben-Attar, posted that she saw Melania Trump at Walter Reed and that claim spread quickly.
- The White House and Walter Reed did not immediately comment, fueling speculation.
Medical Explanation For Visible Signs
- The White House attributed Trump's visible bruises and swollen ankles to chronic venous insufficiency.
- That medical explanation was presented as benign but still left room for public worry given his age.