Trump, First Lady test positive for COVID
Diagnosis - just one month from the Nov. 3 elections - throws remainder of campaign into question
With just a month to go until the nation's elections, U.S. President Donald Trump and his wife Melania have tested positive for COVID-19 after coming into contact with a staffer who was diagnosed with the virus.
Around midnight on Friday in Washington, reports started coming in that the president and first lady would go into quarantine after Hope Hicks - an adviser - tested positive for the virus. Hicks had traveled with the president on Air Force One this week.
Shortly after that, Trump tweeted his own tests results.
"Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19," he announced on Twitter. "We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!"
Trump's doctor released an official letter.
"This evening I received confirmation that both President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 virus," Dr. Sean Conley wrote. "The President and First Lady are both well at this time , and they plan to remain 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."
This news cuts into Trump's ability to campaign against Democrat nominee former vice president Joe Biden in what is already a contentious and tight race. A planned Trump rally - famed for drawing thousands of supporters - has been canceled in Orlando.
President Trump is 74.
Melania Trump also sent out a tweet, empathizing with Americans who have been diagnosed with the virus.
"As too many Americans have done this year, @potus & I are quarantining at home after testing positive for COVID-19. We are feeling good & I have postponed all upcoming engagements. Please be sure you are staying safe & we will all get through this together," she said.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.
