Trump’s Hand Bruise Sparks New Round of Medical Speculation
While signing an executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, President Donald Trump drew attention once again—not just for his policy move, but for a mysterious mark on his hand that has the internet buzzing with theories.
This isn’t the first time Trump has been seen with a noticeable bruise on his right hand. Back in February, during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a similar dark mark was spotted—raising eyebrows across social media.
As new photos circulated online, users were quick to point out the similarity.
Journalist Aaron Rupar tweeted, “Scrolling Getty and couldn’t help but notice this photo of a huge bruise on Trump’s hand today.”
Another user remarked, “There have been several recent photos showing bruising on the same hand. Always the same spot.”
A third speculated, “That’s the kind of bruise you get from an IV—usually if you’re on blood thinners. What are they giving him?”
Some even suggested the former president tried to cover it up, noting a Getty Images description mentioning the mark was “covered in makeup.”
At the time, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed concerns. She credited the bruise to Trump’s frequent handshakes.
“President Trump is constantly meeting Americans and shaking more hands than any president in history,” she said, adding that this level of interaction explains any bruising.
Not to gross y’all out, but it’s not just the bruise on Trump’s hand—these are not the fingernails of a healthy man. pic.twitter.com/RlOyE7NRvM
— Christopher Webb (@cwebbonline) February 26, 2025
But not everyone agrees.
Experts Raise Doubts
When similar marks reappeared during a March meeting with Irish leader Micheál Martin, speculation reignited—this time with input from medical professionals.
Dr. Anatalia Moore, a dermatology expert, told The Mirror that bruising from handshakes was highly unlikely.
“Unless someone is squeezing with excessive force, a handshake won’t typically cause that kind of bruise,” she explained. “In an older patient, especially someone in their late 70s, bruising like that could suggest a medical procedure—like the insertion of a cannula or IV drip.”
She also pointed out that even minor bumps can leave significant bruises on older adults, especially those who aren’t in peak health.
‘Signs of IV Treatment’
When Trump signed the order to shutter the Department of Education on March 20—calling it a “historic action 45 years in the making”—many online paid more attention to his hand than his words.
“Not to be gross, but that’s not just a bruise—look at his fingernails. They’re not healthy,” one person tweeted, attaching a close-up photo showing the discoloration and deep ridges in his nails.
Another wrote, “He supposedly healed fast from a bullet graze, but can’t shake a hand without bruising?”
One user, claiming to be an IV therapist, added, “I’ve seen this before. That’s a bruise from a blown vein. I’ve caused a few like that myself. He’s getting treatment for something.”
What Do You Think?
Could the bruises simply be from handshakes, or is there something more going on behind the scenes? Let us know your thoughts—and share this story to hear what others think too.