On Friday, former President Donald Trump claimed he was in better health than the Navy’s championship football team, a statement supported by his former White House physician, now Congressman Ronny Jackson.
During a ceremony at the White House, Trump welcomed the Navy midshipmen to present them with the prestigious Commander in Chief Trophy, celebrating their victory over Army in their annual rivalry game. The event also served as an opportunity for Trump to acknowledge guests with Navy ties, including Dr. Ronny Jackson, who has transitioned from his role as White House doctor to a congressman representing Texas.
“Dr. Jackson once said I’m the healthiest person he’s ever examined,” Trump, 79, remarked, before turning to Jackson with a playful question: “Ronny, am I healthier than these fellows behind me?”
Jackson responded emphatically, saying, “Yes, sir.”
With a grin, Trump added, “That’s why I appreciate him.”
Trump humorously recounted Jackson’s previous assertion about his health, quoting him as saying, “If he didn’t indulge in junk food, he’d live to be 200 years old.”
“I love this guy.”
The president was in a jovial mood as he welcomed the college athletes to the White House. He joked with the players, engaged in some trash talk and invited them to the Oval Office.
The players gave as good as they got.
When the captains of the Navy team presented the president with a helmet, Trump observed, “This is very heavy,” noting one needs a “strong neck.”
Quarterback Blake Horvath, the Navy co-captain, didn’t miss a beat: “You’re the healthiest guy here, so you got the neck to do it.”
Trump chuckled at the comeback.
The president also expressed his admiration for co-captain Landon Robinson, who clocks in at 6 feet tall and 287 pounds.
“This is the guy I want to meet,” Trump said.
Shaking his hand, Trump observed, “His arms are like steel. I just hurt my hand.”
“You think I could take him in a fight,” Trump asked one of the Navy players.
The midshipman nodded in agreement.
