As my colleague Becca Lower covered, President Trump announced on Thursday evening’s episode of “Hannity” that one of his aides, Hope Hicks, had tested positive for COVID-19, and that he and Melania had taken tests and were awaiting their results. At the time, he said he hoped to have results Thursday night or Friday morning.
Just before 1 a.m. Friday, President Trump announced 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!”
Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 2, 2020
The White House Press Office released a memo from Trump’s doctor, which was tweeted out by Judd Deere.
Memorandum from President @realDonaldTrump’s Physician pic.twitter.com/ujHUufQBln
— Judd Deere (@JuddPDeere45) October 2, 2020
After the formalities, the 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.”
Future updates on the story will be provided Friday.