White House press event interrupted after man collapses behind President Trump during live broadcast
WASHINGTON — A live press conference at the White House on Thursday, November 6, 2025, was abruptly interrupted after a man standing behind President Donald Trump fainted while the event was being broadcast nationwide.
The incident occurred as Eli Lilly CEO Dave Ricks was speaking from the podium. Video footage captured the moment the man suddenly collapsed, prompting those nearby to rush forward and prevent a severe fall.
Dr. Mehmet Oz, serving as head of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, immediately intervened alongside other participants to provide first aid until the White House medical team arrived. Within seconds, members of the press were ushered out of the Oval Office, and the conference was temporarily suspended.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later confirmed that the individual was “doing fine,” explaining that the episode was a brief fainting spell and clarifying that there were no signs of a security threat or a serious medical condition. The event resumed shortly afterward once the man had been treated and safely removed.
Unclear identity sparks confusion online
In the hours following the incident, speculation spread rapidly on social media, with some users falsely identifying the individual as a Novo Nordisk executive. The company quickly denied the rumors, stating that none of its representatives present at the Oval Office were involved.
As of Thursday evening, the White House and credible media outlets have not confirmed the person’s identity, referring to him only as “a representative from one of the companies.” Official statements have avoided naming anyone, emphasizing that early online claims were either unverified or later contradicted by Novo Nordisk. Authorities have not announced any investigation, treating the event strictly as an isolated medical episode.
🚨 BREAKING: Man passes out in the Oval Office during announcement on lowering drug prices pic.twitter.com/VzuUMOwOfP — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) November 6, 2025
Backdrop: deal on weight-loss and diabetes drugs
The episode unfolded during a high-profile announcement of an agreement between the Trump administration and major pharmaceutical companies involved in producing GLP-1–based medications, such as Wegovy, Zepbound, and similar treatments used for obesity and diabetes.
The deal aims to lower the cost of these drugs and expand access through public healthcare programs, following months of political pressure and debate over their economic and social impact.
President Trump described the agreement as a “major step toward closing the gap” between patients who can afford cutting-edge treatments and those excluded by high prices. The event drew participation from executives at Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, health officials, and members of the administration, underscoring both its political and media significance.
