Fact Check: "Donald Trump has a catheter"
What We Know
On June 9, 2025, a claim surfaced online suggesting that U.S. President Donald Trump was wearing a catheter during his appearance at a UFC event. This speculation was fueled by a photograph showing Trump alongside fighter Kayla Harrison, who had just won a championship bout. Social media posts, including one from an Instagram user, claimed that the visible line down Trump's pants was not merely a crease but tubing associated with a Foley catheter, a medical device used to drain urine from the bladder (source-1).
The White House responded to these claims through spokesperson Steven Cheung, who emphasized Trump's transparency regarding his health and referenced a recent medical report indicating that Trump is in "peak condition" (source-1). This report was corroborated by Captain Sean Barbabella, Trump's physician, who stated that Trump was in "excellent health" following a comprehensive physical examination in April 2025 (source-2).
Despite the claims, there is no definitive evidence supporting the assertion that Trump was wearing a catheter. Observations of the footage and photographs from the event revealed a shadow on Trump's leg, but it was inconclusive whether this was due to a catheter or merely the result of lighting and clothing folds (source-1).
Analysis
The claim that Donald Trump was wearing a catheter appears to be largely speculative, with no solid medical evidence or official confirmation to support it. The assertion was primarily based on visual interpretations of a photograph and anecdotal comments from social media users. For instance, one user claimed, "It definitely looks like Trump is wearing a Catheter most likely a Foley!" (source-2). However, many others dismissed the notion, attributing the bulge to wrinkles in his pants (source-2).
The credibility of the sources discussing the claim varies. While some are reputable news outlets, others stem from social media speculation, which often lacks rigorous fact-checking. For example, the claim was widely circulated on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, where misinformation can spread rapidly without verification (source-1).
Furthermore, Trump's health has been a topic of public interest and speculation for years, leading to a heightened sensitivity around any perceived health issues. This context may contribute to the amplification of claims like the catheter theory, regardless of their factual basis (source-3).
Conclusion
Needs Research: The claim that Donald Trump has a catheter lacks sufficient evidence to be substantiated. While there are numerous social media assertions and anecdotal observations, there is no definitive proof or official acknowledgment from credible medical sources. The existing evidence is inconclusive, and the claim appears to be more rooted in speculation than in verified fact. Further investigation and reliable medical insights would be necessary to clarify this matter.
Sources
- Claims spread Trump wore catheter at UFC event. Here's what we know. Snopes
- Donald Trump wearing a Foley catheter? POTUS' latest appearance sparks ... Hindustan Times
- Donald Trump fans fear dementia as 'catheter' spotted in his trousers. Mirror
- Alarming Donald Trump health fears surge as 'catheter' spotted ... - MSN. MSN
- Strange lump spotted in Donald Trump's trousers as fans ... Express
- Speculation mounts that Trump is using a 'hidden leg brace' in the wake ... Independent
- Alarming Donald Trump health fears surge as 'catheter' ... Irish Star
- Is Donald Trump Wearing A Catheter? Or Did His Bulge Show At UFC Fight. OK Magazine
