00:00During a recent stop in Rome, Georgia, President Donald Trump, 79, found himself trending online,
00:06not for a policy announcement, but for a photo shared by a sports podcaster that exposed his
00:10noticeably swollen ankles, sometimes called cankles. The photo, taken during an informal
00:16podcast recording at the Varsity restaurant, showed Trump seated with his legs visible,
00:20and for the first time in public view, the swelling of his lower legs was unmistakable.
00:25The snap quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing attention from commentators,
00:30critics, and internet users alike. According to the report, the White House has often tried to
00:35limit how much of the president's legs appear in official images, keeping feet out of frame or
00:40strategically positioning him behind tables. But in this candid moment, those efforts couldn't
00:46conceal what many noticed. The swelling is linked to a medical condition known as chronic venous
00:51insufficiency, a circulatory issue common among older adults in which the veins in the lower legs
00:55struggle to return blood efficiently back to the heart. While not usually life-threatening,
01:00the condition can cause visible puffiness around the ankles when a person sits or stands for long
01:04periods. In past public appearances, Trump's swollen ankles have been visible in photographs
01:09taken during official meetings and events. Photos from earlier gatherings, including one with a
01:16visiting world leader, also showed ankle swelling peeking out above his shoes, underscoring that this
01:20isn't an isolated moment but a recurring physical feature. When asked about the situation, a White
01:27House spokesperson defended Trump's overall health and energy, dismissing the focus on his ankles
01:32while emphasizing his continued presidential duties. The administration's response suggested that
01:37critics were exaggerating concerns about his physical condition. In fact, Trump himself has
01:41acknowledged wearing compression socks in the past to help with the swelling, but said he stopped
01:45because he found them uncomfortable. He has also publicly downplayed exercise beyond leisure activities
01:51like golf. The moment has once again reignited debate over the president's health and public image,
01:57particularly as he continues in office at an age when visible signs of aging can fuel discussion about
02:01stamina, vigor, and capability. Share your thoughts in the comment.
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