Critics doubt White House defense of Trump bandages: 'Is he shaking hands with chainsaws?'

Bemused social media users had a series of comments — and questions — on Thursday after White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attempted to defend the bandages on President Donald Trump's hand during a press conference.

A reporter asked Leavitt if she could explain what was happening with the bandages on Trump's right hand.

"We've given you an explanation. The president is literally constantly shaking hands," Leavitt said, comparing the White House to "Grand Central Terminal."

People responded to Leavitt's comments on social media.

"I believe that the president shakes a lot of hands, but handshaking is not a credible explanation for the chronic bruise on his hand. Are there bruises in other locations?" Professor, cardiologist and CNN medical analyst Jonathan Reiner wrote on X.

"Is he shaking hands with chainsaws? Why does he need bandages?" A user who goes by Dr. Domingo wrote on X.

"An impressive non-literal use of literally AND constantly, back to back!" CNBC media and sports reporter Alex Sherman wrote on X.

"NO WAY: Q: What’s going on with the bandages on Trump’s hand? LEAVITT: We’ve already explained it. The president is just constantly shaking hands. Imagine trying to sell 'handshake injuries' as a medical explanation for the leader of the free world. They aren’t even trying anymore," journalist Brian Allen wrote on X.

"Leavitt: 'He is meeting with more people than any of you even know about on a daily basis.' The people he's meeting with, apparently," columnist Jill Filipovic wrote on X.

"So they’re really going with 'he just shakes so many hands' huh," writer and filmmaker Brendan Weathers wrote on X.

"When the eventual diagnosis comes out, they won’t apologize for lying. Maybe they’ll say they needed to protect privacy, tho President health is necessary public info. Real excuse: we didn’t need to tell you ******s anything," author and producer Bill Carter wrote on X.