White House Chief Of Staff Mark Meadows Says Donald Trump In ‘Good Spirits’ Despite COVID-19 Diagnosis

White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said Friday President Donald Trump is in “good spirits” despite his positive COVID-19 diagnosis. The president and first lady Melania Trump have both tested positive for the virus, and are currently in quarantine. 

Meadows told reporters in front of the White House that Trump was experiencing “minor symptoms” of the virus. He said it would not be surprising if more positive test results came out of the White House. 

Trump was reportedly feeling lethargic and had a hoarse voice on Thursday. The president had met with donors at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club.

Meadows did not say whether the president is taking any treatment for the virus. The White House chief of staff said senior counselor Hope Hicks discovered on Thursday she had tested positive for COVID-19 “as Marine One was taking off” for New Jersey.

Meadows did not wear a mask while speaking with reporters despite the possibility he has been exposed to the virus. He said he did not need to wear a face covering because he tested negative for COVID-19.

The White House has begun taking measures to prevent further spread of the virus among staff. Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien told staff in an email any “campaign staff members who has had exposure to someone testing positive should immediately begin self-quarantine.” 

Vice President MIke Pence and wife, Karen, both tested negative for the virus. If Trump’s health condition deteriorates, Pence would likely have to assume the powers of the presidency. 

Democratic nominee Joe Biden, who debated Trump on Tuesday, is also being tested for the virus although it appears he did not have close contact with the president. Nor did the candidates shake hands before or after the debate. Biden is currently awaiting test results. He traveled to Grand Rapids, Michigan, Friday.