A White House press conference on Thursday was briefly disrupted when a man fainted in the Oval Office. President Donald Trump was announcing a deal with pharmaceutical companies to reduce the cost of obesity drugs at the time.
The incident quickly went viral online as footage of the man collapsing spread across social media platforms.
“A man just passed out during President Trump’s Oval Office announcement. Oz SPRUNG into action and assisted him. Pray for him.”
Many viewers expressed concern and shared messages of support for the man, whose live appearance was cut short after the fainting episode. Initially, online users identified the individual as Gordon Findlay, reportedly a Novo Nordisk executive.
“BREAKING: Novo Nordisk executive Gordon Findlay collapses during Trump's announcement in Oval Office, announcement suspended.”
However, Novo Nordisk later issued a statement to correct the record.
“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 also offered clarification:
“During the Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement, a representative with one of the companies fainted.”
During President Trump's Oval Office announcement on obesity drug pricing, a man fainted, prompting viral speculation later dispelled by Novo Nordisk’s clarification.