Jayme Leagh Franklin, a former staff member in the Trump administration, has addressed speculation surrounding her presence at an event where President Donald Trump appeared to be dozing off. The incident occurred during an executive order ceremony held in the Oval Office on August 10, 2026, leading to a barrage of online rumours suggesting that Franklin was using a concealed device to rouse the 80-year-old president.
During the ceremony, Trump was visibly tired, seemingly closing his eyes and tilting his head while Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, the head of the National Institutes of Health, made remarks. Franklin was situated directly behind Trump, and observers noted her frequent gestures towards her stomach, prompting some to theorise that she might be using a “zapping” technique to keep him alert.
Online speculation quickly escalated, with one viral post on social media platform X claiming that Franklin had a button attached to her belly. According to the unfounded theory, each time Trump dozed off, she would press the button and revive him. This led to Franklin being dubbed “The Zapper” by those propagating the conspiracy, although there was no evidence to support the claim.
On August 11, Franklin took to social media to dismiss the claims outright. “I’m just pregnant you weirdos,” she wrote, accompanying her comment with a pair of laughing emojis to underscore her disbelief over the absurdity of the speculation.
This incident is not the first time Trump’s drowsiness has sparked controversy. Previous occasions when he appeared sleepy during public appearances have led to outcry and backlash. For instance, the White House firmly refuted claims that the president had fallen asleep while delivering a eulogy for the late Senator Lindsey Graham at the National Cathedral earlier in July. Camera footage captured him with his eyes closed, triggering similar concerns.
In a statement to media outlet PEOPLE, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle asserted that the president was merely reflecting on the poignant memory of his longtime friend. Ingle’s comments categorically rejected any alternative interpretations, labelling those suggesting otherwise as “depraved morons.”
Trump himself has previously responded to accusations regarding his drowsiness in various appearances. During a January interview with The Wall Street Journal, he explained that many of the photographs that capture him appearing “drowsy” are simply moments when he is blinking, insisting that they are often misrepresented.
This ongoing scrutiny reflects the heightened interest in Trump’s behaviour and health, particularly in light of his advanced age. As a public figure and former President, any perceived lapse in alertness can lead to extensive public commentary and speculation.
While Franklin’s comments resonated with many who felt the conspiracy theories were unfounded, the incident showcases the often absurd nature of online speculation, especially regarding high-profile political figures. With Franklin now directing her attention to promoting the MAGA lifestyle publication, The Conservateur, her brief role in the latest chapter of Trump’s public life is certain to attract attention.
As the political landscape continues to evolve and change, the focus on the personal and public facets of Trump’s presidency remains unrelenting, illustrating the complex dynamics of celebrity, politics, and public perception. In a world where information spreads rapidly, discerning fact from fiction becomes increasingly crucial, not only for political figureheads but for the general populace.