A new photo of former President Donald Trump has reignited conspiracy theories surrounding the July 2024 assassination attempt at his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The image, taken in the White House Situation Room, shows Trump’s right ear appearing unscarred, which has led some online to question the official version of events.

The assassination attempt shocked the nation. During the rally, a gunman fired from a nearby rooftop, killing one spectator—50-year-old Corey Comperatore—and critically injuring two others. Trump himself was grazed by a bullet on his right ear. The shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crook, was shot and killed by the Secret Service.

Following the incident, Trump appeared publicly with a white bandage over his ear, symbolizing both injury and resilience. Many of his supporters wore similar bandages in solidarity. The moment became a rallying cry and emotional touchstone for his campaign.

However, the recent image has fueled online skepticism. Users on social media platform X commented on the lack of visible injury, questioning whether the wound ever existed. Some mocked the situation, suggesting Trump had experienced “miraculous ear regrowth.”

Critics of the conspiracy pointed out the scientific inaccuracy of these claims. Ear cartilage does not heal in a way that fully regenerates lost tissue. Some theorists went as far as to call the shooting “the biggest scam ever,” prompting backlash.

Dr. Ronny Jackson, Trump’s former White House physician, had previously explained the nature of the wound. According to Jackson, the injury involved heavy bleeding and swelling but did not require stitches, as it was more of a blunt graze than a penetrating wound. The area continued to bleed intermittently during early recovery.

Supporters of Trump and many others pushed back against the renewed conspiracies. They cited extensive video footage, eyewitness testimony, and even photographic evidence capturing the bullet mid-air. They emphasized the gravity of the event and urged respect for the victims.

As debate continues, the controversy illustrates how conspiracy theories can persist—even in the face of evidence—and how polarizing figures like Trump remain central to online discourse and political drama.