The Trump ‘zapper’ conspiracy theory that’s taking over social media

A new role within the White House has emerged, tasked with monitoring the president's sleep patterns in public appearances. Rumors began circulating following a press conference where Donald Trump, the sitting president, appeared to nod off while seated. The event took a peculiar turn when the woman seated behind him, Jane Franklin, touched her own chest—a moment that some on social media immediately linked to her allegedly "zapping" the president back to consciousness.

The woman, later dubbed "The Zapper," sparked a wave of conspiracy theories on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Some dubbed her "The Zapper," likening her to a Batman villainess intent on undermining democracy. "She is The Zapper. She's like a Batman villainess and she's trying to tank democracy. We need to send out the Bat Signal," one user wrote.

Others found the notion even more absurd, stating, "cant even call shit like this a conspiracy theory anymore bc everything thats actually happening in the world sounds like one anyway. what the hell sure. The Zapper." Of course, there's no concrete evidence to support the "Zapper" claim. Franklin, it turns out, is a conservative activist and media entrepreneur known as Jayme Franklin.

She was seen wearing a striking scarf and navy blue attire during the event. When not in the Oval Office, Franklin runs a conservative publication called The Conservateur, targeting Christian women with stories like "Gen Z Is Leading America’s Catholic Revival." She also sells merchandise, including a scarf for $228 and a cap featuring the slogan "Make America Hot Again" for $45.

The viral fame of Franklin has led her to address the speculation directly. She revealed that she frequently touches her belly because she is pregnant. Amidst the wild theories, a more grounded concern exists. The president has been caught appearing to doze off during several public events, including a recent NBA Finals game and a funeral for Senator Lindsey Graham.

Such incidents have a troubling historical precedent: in December, Trump appeared drowsy during a cabinet meeting and even during his own criminal trial in 2024. Media experts have taken note of the president's daytime sleepiness, with Jonathan Reiner, a professor at George Washington University, cautioning about its implications in a recent New York Times op-ed.

The White House, however, dismissed these concerns, asserting that Trump remains sharp and accessible, setting him apart from former President Joe Biden, whom Trump once referred to as "Sleepy Joe."