Trump says media believed he was 'dead' after he went 32 straight days without speaking to reporters

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump took aim at the press during a speech to House Republicans, joking that media outlets believed he was “dead” after he went more than a month without addressing reporters.

Speaking at the House GOP member retreat, Trump recounted how speculation swirled after he did not speak to the media for 32 consecutive days, turning the episode into a moment of humor that drew loud laughter from the crowd.

The president said the gap was partly due to personal time spent with his granddaughter, Kai Trump, whom he described as a talented golfer.

Trump recalls skipping press for golf with granddaughter

“Then one day, do you remember I didn’t do one because I took Kai, my brilliant golfer, young lady, who swings the club so easily,” Trump told the audience.

Trump went on to explain that the outing turned into a lesson in what he jokingly called “speed golf,” sharing a lighthearted exchange with his granddaughter.

“Grandpa, would you play golf? I play speed golf. It’s better that way,” Trump said, mimicking Kai’s voice.

The president added another punchline that drew laughter from the room.

“You know the expression: Miss it quick!” Trump said, prompting audible laughter from GOP lawmakers in attendance.

Donald Trump mocks rumors

Trump said the absence from press events triggered concern from people who began calling him directly.

“Guys are calling me up. ‘Are you okay?’” he recalled. “Yeah, what’s the problem?”

According to Trump, those calls quickly took a strange turn.

“There’s a report, sir, that you’re no longer with us,” he said, pausing before delivering the punchline. “Do you remember that?”

Trump said he hesitated before repeating the rumor, describing the word involved as unpleasant.

“The report was - I don’t want to use the ‘D’ word,” Trump said. “That’s such a horrible word. DEAD!”

The comment sparked laughter from the crowd, with Trump clearly enjoying the moment as he leaned into the absurdity of the rumor.

A familiar Trump tactic

The remarks fit a familiar pattern for Trump, who often blends humor, grievance and media criticism during speeches to friendly audiences.

For years, Trump has accused the press of exaggerating narratives about his health, schedule and decision-making, frequently framing such coverage as detached from reality.

His comments at the House GOP retreat also highlighted how closely his media appearances or lack thereof, are scrutinized, even during periods when he is active behind the scenes.