Did Novo Nordisk executive faint in Oval Office? Company clarifies amid buzz about Gordon Findlay

Man Faints During Oval Office Press Conference

During a White House press conference on Thursday, a man fainted in the Oval Office while President Donald Trump was announcing a deal with drugmakers to lower the cost of obesity medications. The incident was captured on video and widely shared online.

Eyewitness Account

Independent journalist Eric Daugherty shared the video, stating, “A man just passed out during President Trump’s Oval Office announcement. Oz SPRUNG into action and assisted him.” He also urged, “Pray for him.” Many viewers offered prayers for the man's recovery as the broadcast was cut short.

Misidentification of the Individual

The fainting man was initially identified as Gordon Findlay, rumored to be an executive at Novo Nordisk. An account on X prematurely reported:

“BREAKING: Novo Nordisk executive Gordon Findlay collapses during Trump's announcement in Oval Office, announcement suspended.”

Company Response

However, Novo Nordisk clarified their representatives in the Oval Office were CEO Mike Doustdar and EVP of US Operations Dave Moore only. The company stated to Newsweek,

“We hope the gentleman who suffered a medical incident today is okay.”

Official Explanation

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained,

“During the Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement, a representative with one of the companies fainted.”

Summary

The man who fainted during President Trump's Oval Office event was mistakenly identified as a Novo Nordisk executive, but the company confirmed this was not the case.

Author's summary: A man fainted during President Trump’s obesity drug announcement in the Oval Office, initially misidentified as a Novo Nordisk executive, but the company confirmed he was not affiliated with them.

Hindustan Times — 2025-11-06