Just before 1 a.m. Friday, President Trump tweeted that he and First Lady Melania Trump both tested positive for the Wuhan coronavirus, saying that the couple “will begin their quarantine and recovery process immediately” and that they “will get through this TOGETHER!”
A formal announcement came from the president’s personal physician, U.S. Navy Commander Sean P. Conley. His letter reads:
“This evening I received confirmation that both President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
“The President and First lady are both well at this time, and they plan to remain at home within the White House during their convalescence.
“The White House medical team and I will maintain a vigilant watch, and I appreciate the support provided by some of our country’s greatest medical professionals and institutions. Rest assured I expect the president to continue carrying out his duties without disruption while recovering, and I will keep you updated on any further developments.”
Neither the president nor the First Lady is showing symptoms as of this writing.
The news came on the heels of the announcement that Hope Hicks, a longtime, close aid to the president who travels with him on Air Force One, had tested positive and was symptomatic.
The president had tweeted: “Hope Hicks, who has been working so hard without even taking a small break, has just tested positive for Covid 19. Terrible! The First Lady and I are waiting for our test results. In the meantime, we will begin our quarantine process!”
Although there are false positives, it seems unlikely that both Trumps would simultaneously draw a false positive result. A false positive seems especially unlikely given that the Trumps were in close proximity to Hope Hicks, who has also tested positive and is reportedly showing symptoms.
Several other prime ministers and heads of government have contracted the virus, including Britain’s Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, who had a severe case and was hospitalized in an intensive care unit for several days, and Jair Bolsonaro, the president of Brazil.
We will praying for the speedy recovery of the President and First Lady.
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 1 Tim. 2:1-4