“Medbed” conspiracy theory led to websites that attempted to scam people who mistakenly believe that their products were authentic.
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On his true social account over the weekend, President Donald Trump shared (and subsequently deleted) a seemingly AI-generated video containing a deepfake version of himself promoting nonexistent products related to the broader Qanon conspiracy theory.
The video itself Fox News The segment, hosted by Trump's daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, featured a product called “Medbed.” This is a fictional healthcare technique that appears to heal the illness of the individual lying down. Several variants of the “Medbed” conspiracy theory claim it can reverse aging and regrow missing limbs.
Conspirators have argued that Medbed technology is only available to rich, well-connected people, but Trump may one day make it available to the public.
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In his Truth Social Post, Trump's deepfake version says he gives all Americans “advanced technology” and hospitals that do not exist at Medbed Hospital. In doing so, the video's fake Trump says it will “return all citizens to full health and strength.”
The video claims that more information on how to register your Medbed card will soon be available. Medbed Card website exists, but it's a scam that makes money to deceive people who believe in conspiracy theory.
It is unclear why Trump shared the video. The president frequently shares his own news coverage on social media, but he shares videos generated by AI, presents statements he has never actually made, baffling many people online, and questioning whether it is a sign that Trump's mental vision is declining.
During the 2024 presidential campaign, several commentators said there were underreported signs that Trump could face cognitive decline. New polls show that large Americans are concerned about the president's current cognitive status.
According to economist/A Yougov poll released earlier this month shows that only 40% of voters who think Trump has the right temperament to become president, while 50% say that he is not. On the question of whether Trump's age or health affects his duties as president, 34% believe he has strictly restricted what he can do, while another 27% say he has little effect on his job performance. Only 26% believe Trump's age and health will not affect his treatment of the presidency.
Data from the Progress poll released in July shows similar concerns from voters, with multiple 49% saying Trump is “too old” for him to become president. A similar number, 48%, say they believe Trump is experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline, while 45% say they disagree.
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