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 obesity drug costs. The incident was widely shared online.
Independent journalist Eric Daugherty shared a video of the man collapsing, writing:
“A man just passed out during President Trump’s Oval Office announcement. Oz SPRUNG into action and assisted him. Pray for him.”
Many viewers sent prayers for the man’s well-being, though the live feed ended abruptly after the incident.
The man was initially identified as Gordon Findlay, claimed to be an executive from Novo Nordisk. One social media account stated:
“BREAKING: Novo Nordisk executive Gordon Findlay collapses during Trump's announcement in Oval Office, announcement suspended.”
However, Novo Nordisk clarified the situation, confirming the man was not affiliated with their company:
“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 added:
“During the Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement, a representative with one of the companies fainted.”
No further details about the man's identity or condition have been officially released.
The fainting incident at the Oval Office stirred confusion, but Novo Nordisk confirmed the man was not their executive, highlighting the importance of verifying information during live events.