"JD Vance says Trump is in good shape, but he's ready to step up and be president if needed."

Washington — Amid growing questions about President Donald Trump’s health, Vice President JD Vance says he’s fully prepared to step in as commander-in-chief if needed — though he’s confident Trump is fit to serve out his term. In an interview with USA Today, Vance reassured the public that the 79-year-old president is in good shape. “The president is in incredibly good health… He’s got incredible energy,” said the 41-year-old VP. “I feel very confident that he’s going to complete his term and continue doing great things for the American people.” Still, Vance acknowledged that being vice president means being ready for anything. “If, God forbid, there’s a terrible tragedy, I can’t think of better on-the-job training than what I’ve gotten over the last 200 days,” he said. Concerns about Trump’s health have grown after a large bruise was spotted on his hand during a recent meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. Trump, who was 78 years and 7 months old when he took office in January, is the oldest person ever to be sworn in as U.S. president. His predecessor, Joe Biden, was just a few months younger when he began his term in 2021. Vance, one of the youngest vice presidents in U.S. history, recalled his first time entering the Oval Office earlier this year. “It was amazing. I was overwhelmed by the grandeur of the office and all the history that’s been made there,” he said. “But if I’m being honest, it was the middle of winter, the drapes were closed, and it felt kind of dark and gloomy. This is the workplace of the leader of the free world — it should feel a bit brighter.” He praised President Trump’s recent redecorating efforts, saying he likes the updated look of the Oval Office. Earlier this month, Trump referred to Vance as his “most likely” successor to lead the MAGA movement, but Vance has downplayed any speculation about his own plans for 2028.

NEWS