Typically, I steer clear of Trump’s press conferences due to their infuriating nature. His uninformed remarks and relentless criticisms of the media can ruin my day. However, his recent comments about insulin caught my attention, and I can’t help but express my thoughts on the issue.
In a press conference last Tuesday, Trump announced that starting next year, most Medicare recipients will be able to acquire their insulin for $35 a month or less—an essential move considering the exorbitant costs of insulin today. As someone living with type 1 diabetes, I wholeheartedly support any efforts to reduce these costs. But then came his baffling statement: “I don’t use insulin. Should I be? Huh? I never thought about it. But I know a lot of people are very, very badly affected, right? Unbelievable.” It’s astonishing that the President of the United States doesn’t grasp the basics of insulin, yet seems to experience a case of FOMO (fear of missing out).
I shouldn’t be shocked, though. Trump has previously acknowledged taking hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19 without solid evidence backing its efficacy. He’s even suggested that heat or disinfectants could combat the virus—a clear indication that he is not well-versed in medical knowledge.
During the same conference, after Trump and Vice President Harris praised their administration’s efforts, Surgeon General Roberts clarified, “Your body, Mr. President, actually makes insulin endogenously. People like you and me produce our own insulin.” Trump’s reaction? A simple “Ah.”
True to form, Trump diverted attention back to himself, boasting about how insulin prices would soon be “tumbling down” for seniors due to what he claims is a competitive environment created by his administration. Newsflash: diabetes isn’t exclusive to seniors; individuals of all ages, including infants, can require insulin. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 24. While I’m glad to see lower prices for seniors on Medicare, it’s evident that Trump isn’t motivated by altruism or an understanding of diabetes and insulin.
He framed the price reduction as a significant win for seniors, warning them of the dire consequences of not taking insulin—blindness, strokes, amputations, kidney failure, and more. Then he adds, “I hope seniors are going to remember it,” clearly aiming to win their votes by deflecting blame onto Obama and Biden. It’s frustrating that he lacks basic knowledge about insulin yet seeks to claim it as a personal victory. Ironically, he attributes the high cost of insulin to the incompetence of Biden and Obama.
The reality is diabetes is a serious condition. Reports indicate that some diabetics have resorted to traveling to Canada where insulin is significantly cheaper. In the last 20 years, insulin prices have skyrocketed by 1000%, forcing many patients to ration their supplies dangerously. For me, there is no choice: I require insulin continuously to survive, regardless of the cost.
If insulin prices can be lowered for Medicare recipients, why not extend that relief to everyone? The CDC states that about 34.2 million Americans have diabetes, with 5-10% being type 1 diabetics. Our medical expenses are often more than double those of individuals without diabetes. My insulin alone costs around $2400 for a three-month supply, not including other essential components of my diabetes management such as my insulin pump and various medical appointments.
General Roberts mentioned that 7 million people depend on insulin, including 1.6 million with type 1 diabetes. However, I am aware that the price cuts will primarily benefit those Trump thinks might vote for him, leaving many—including children with type 1 diabetes—overlooked.
Seeing headlines about diabetes is exhausting, especially against the backdrop of COVID-19. It’s disheartening that the leader of our country questions whether he should be using insulin while countless others struggle to afford it.
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Summary: Trump’s lack of understanding about insulin and diabetes is alarming, especially as he announces potential price reductions for seniors while ignoring the needs of younger diabetics. His focus on self-promotion and political gain overshadows the actual health crisis many face.