President Donald Trump’s health concerns have triggered a behind-the-scenes power struggle within the MAGA movement. Conservative strategist Rick Wilson likens the situation to a “MAGA Hunger Games” as Trump, aged 79, shows signs of aging and health issues. Wilson says Vice President JD Vance is moving swiftly to position himself as the movement’s new leader amid these changes.
Wilson, a vocal critic of Trump, reports that insiders from the “Trumpverse” say Vance is preparing to take charge sooner rather than later. He points to Vance’s recent USA Today interview, where Vance said he is ready to become president, having received “on-the-job training” during his first seven months in office. Wilson views this as clear evidence of power jockeying.
Despite rumors, the White House and Vance deny Trump’s health is declining. Vance publicly states Trump is in “incredibly good health” and has “incredible energy.” He describes Trump as the last person to go to bed and the first to make calls each morning. Vance is confident Trump will finish his term and achieve great things.
Concerns about Trump’s health stem from visible bruises on both hands and severely swollen ankles. The White House said Trump has chronic venous insufficiency, a condition where leg veins fail to return blood efficiently, causing swelling. Medical experts say this condition is common in older adults and generally benign.
The hand bruising is explained by the White House as caused by frequent handshakes and aspirin use, though the bruises appear on both hands and require makeup to hide. Trump’s visible physical struggles, such as difficulty walking and swelling, have raised public concern and speculation about his health.
Trump has said it is “far too early to say” who might succeed him but praised Vance as “doing a fantastic job” and also complimented Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The 25th Amendment states that if anything happens to Trump during this term, Vance would become president.
Trump’s first-term doctor, Ronny Jackson, who lost his medical license and now serves in Congress, defends Trump’s health as the best of any president. However, many Americans find this hard to believe given the visible signs. Trump was also shot at during a 2024 campaign rally, adding to worries about his physical strength.
In summary, Vice President JD Vance publicly supports Trump’s health and ability to finish his term. Still, insiders and critics like Rick Wilson point to an ongoing power struggle amid doubts about Trump’s physical condition. Questions about Trump’s health continue to influence the political dynamics within the MAGA movement in Washington.
