Thai PBS Verify found the source of the false information from X.
A Twitter account shared an image along with a message expressing condolences over the passing of the U.S. President.
Thai PBS Verify found that a Twitter account shared an image of Donald Trump , President of the United States, with the caption: “Donald Trump dead at age 79. May his soul rest in peace. Official update from White House page”.
This translates to: “Donald Trump has passed away at the age of 79. May his soul rest in peace. Official update from the White House page.”
The post was made on August 30, 2025, and has been viewed 6,612 times.
Verification through the website whitehouse
However, upon checking the official website of the White House , no announcement or information regarding this matter was found.
News images from the White House website during August 29 – September 1, 2025.
On the same day, Thai PBS Verify found a report from The Economic Times titled: “Trump suffering from severe illness? US President’s new hand bruise photos ignite health speculation.”
This translates as: “Is Trump suffering from a serious illness? New photos showing bruises on the hand of the former U.S. President spark speculation about his health.”
From the report: The Economic Times
However, on September 4, 2025, Donald Trump issued a statement addressing the reports claiming that he had died, confirming that they were not true.
Scholars point out that rumors about the U.S. President’s health undermine public confidence.
Dr. Praphir Apichatsakol, lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science, Srinakharinwirot University, explained that rumors about a leader’s health are often used as a political tool. Talk of illness or weakness immediately affects public confidence.
In the case of Donald Trump, close attention has been paid to his swollen feet, bruised hands, and advancing age, prompting many to question his ability to carry out presidential duties. Normally, U.S. presidents undergo annual health check-ups and disclose the results publicly to reassure the people.
Dr. Praphir Apichatsakol, Lecturer, Department of Political Science, Srinakharinwirot University
In the past, it has been clear that attacks over health are nothing new. Even leaders or executives of major organizations often choose to conceal serious illnesses, as disclosure could destabilize their institutions. This was also the case with Trump, who previously drew attention when he contracted COVID-19 and was hospitalized.
Politically, if a real change were to occur—for instance, if Trump could no longer carry out his duties—the next in line would be Vice President J.D. Vance, who could face even greater pressure and consequences than Trump himself, given that the world closely monitors the U.S. President’s every move. Therefore, following official updates—such as those from the White House website—is essential to ensure information is accurate and to avoid falling victim to rumors.
Process of appointing a new leader if the U.S. President dies
If the President of the United States passes away, the Vice President immediately assumes the presidency under the U.S. Constitution and 25th Amendment, Section 1, without any interim period or congressional vote. The Vice President will take the oath of office administered by the Chief Justice or another Supreme Court Justice to formalize the transition.
A notable example is from 1963, when Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in aboard Air Force One just hours after the assassination of John F. Kennedy.
The announcement of the President’s death occurs as soon as it is confirmed by doctors and government officials, with the White House issuing an official statement and the media reporting directly. After the swearing-in, the new President delivers an address to the American people and the international community.This oath-taking and formal announcement usually happen within just a few hours of the event to prevent a power vacuum. The proceedings are broadcast live through national media, the official Whitehouse.gov website, and the White House’s social media channels.
The truth
Thai PBS Verify has confirmed that this is fake news, as later President Donald Trump personally denied the claim. Meanwhile, academics noted that the rumor about the U.S. President’s death was fabricated as a political attack against Trump.
