During a White House press conference on Thursday, a man fainted in the Oval Office while President Donald Trump was announcing a deal with drugmakers to reduce the cost of obesity medications. The incident interrupted the announcement.
A widely shared video showed the man collapsing. Independent journalist Eric Daugherty wrote alongside the footage,
“A man just passed out during President Trump’s Oval Office announcement. Oz SPRUNG into action and assisted him.”
He added, “Pray for him.” Many viewers expressed concern and offered prayers, though the broadcast was cut short.
The man was initially identified as Gordon Findlay, alleged to be a Novo Nordisk executive. One post on X claimed,
“BREAKING: Novo Nordisk executive Gordon Findlay collapses during Trump's announcement in Oval Office, announcement suspended.”
However, Novo Nordisk clarified the individual was not affiliated with the company. A spokesperson told Newsweek,
“CEO Mike Doustdar and EVP, US Operations, Dave Moore were the only two Novo Nordisk representatives in the Oval Office. We hope the gentleman who suffered a medical incident today is okay.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt provided further information, stating,
“During the Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement, a representative with one of the companies fainted.”
The identity and condition of the man have not been publicly disclosed beyond these statements.
The man who fainted during President Trump’s Oval Office announcement was initially misidentified, with Novo Nordisk confirming he is not affiliated with them, while details remain limited.