President Trump paused a press conference about Iran’s nuclear threat to attend to Dr. Mehmet Oz’s granddaughter who fainted in the Oval Office, displaying a gentle side rarely seen in the high-pressure political environment.

At a Glance

• Dr. Oz’s granddaughter, Philomena Jovanovic, fainted during his swearing-in ceremony as administrator of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
• President Trump immediately halted the press conference to ensure the child received proper care
• Philomena quickly recovered after receiving ice cream from the Navy Mess
• Both Dr. Oz and his daughter Daphne thanked the president for his warmth and personal attention during the incident
• Following her recovery, Trump spent time with Philomena at the historic Resolute Desk

Unexpected Interruption at White House Ceremony

The Oval Office became the scene of a brief medical emergency when Dr. Mehmet Oz’s granddaughter Philomena Jovanovic collapsed during what should have been a celebratory occasion. The incident occurred shortly after Dr. Oz was sworn in as the new administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, interrupting President Trump’s press conference about Iran’s nuclear threat. White House staff quickly responded, clearing reporters from the room while Dr. Oz attended to his granddaughter.

The White House later confirmed that the young girl was fine, stating: “A minor family member fainted during Dr. Oz’s swearing in ceremony in the Oval Office. We are happy to say she is okay.” The ceremony had drawn significant attention as Dr. Oz, a former television personality and Senate candidate, took on responsibility for overseeing federal health insurance programs with a massive $1.5 trillion budget after being confirmed by the Senate with a 53-45 vote.

The job never stops for Dr. Oz … because one of his granddaughters fainted during his swearing-in ceremony at the White House — and he got called into action!!!

Full story HERE: https://t.co/rwZU35f24a

📽️: Fox News pic.twitter.com/rYwvgJbhgH

— TMZ (@TMZ) April 18, 2025

Presidential Compassion on Display

What could have been a concerning situation quickly transformed into a heartwarming display of empathy from President Trump. After Philomena recovered, the president spent personal time with her and her sibling, showing a side of himself rarely captured by the media. The children were treated to Navy Mess soft serve ice cream and given a special opportunity to explore the historic Resolute Desk in the Oval Office.

The incident revealed a tender moment of leadership as Trump immediately prioritized the well-being of a child over official business. White House staff acted efficiently, with press members hearing clear instructions: “Press out. Out, press, out,” allowing the family privacy during the brief medical situation. What began as a potentially serious health concern concluded with ice cream and exploration of presidential treasures.

While visiting the White House for Dr. Mehmet Oz’s swearing-in ceremony, his granddaughter Philomena fainted during President Donald Trump’s remarks in the Oval Office. pic.twitter.com/cpqKSN4fJR

— E! News (@enews) April 19, 2025

Family Expresses Gratitude

Both Dr. Oz and his daughter Daphne took to social media to express their gratitude for the care Philomena received. Daphne Oz shared on Instagram that her daughter quickly recovered from the incident, writing that they were “so grateful it was nothing serious, and she bounced right back.” The family particularly emphasized the compassionate response from President Trump and White House staff during what could have been an overwhelming situation.

Dr. Oz’s appointment comes at a significant time for Medicare and Medicaid as the programs face potential budget adjustments. Congressional Republicans have signaled interest in reducing spending to help fund key priorities in President Trump’s agenda, including extending the 2017 tax cuts. With his background in medicine and media, Dr. Oz brings a unique perspective to his new role overseeing these critical healthcare programs that serve millions of Americans.