A routine White House press event turned unexpectedly tense on Thursday when a guest suddenly collapsed during Dr. Mehmet Oz’s speech in the Oval Office — with President Donald Trump standing nearby. The entire moment, caught on camera, quickly went viral and sparked heated reactions online.
Dr. Oz, now serving as Trump’s administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, was discussing a new plan to reduce the cost of weight-loss medications when the incident occurred. White House officials quickly called for the press to clear the room as medical staff rushed to assist the individual, who has not yet been publicly identified.
Executives from major pharmaceutical companies, including Novo Nordisk — the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy — and Eli Lilly, were in attendance. According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the person was treated immediately and is now recovering well.
“The White House Medical Unit responded right away, and the gentleman is okay,” Leavitt confirmed.
David Ricks, CEO of Eli Lilly, later told ABC News, “If you’ve ever been in the Oval Office, it’s warm and you stand for a long time. Thankfully, the person received quick medical care and is doing great.”
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