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Trump Defends Energy Policies, Claims 'Record Production'

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ds-energy-policies-claims-record-production.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 21:15 GMT by ABC 7 Chicago
      Locales: New York, Florida, UNITED STATES

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Former President Donald Trump, in a wide-ranging interview with ABC News' David Muir, vigorously defended his administration's energy policies, offered a robust assessment of his current health, and elaborated on a recent, comprehensive medical screening. The interview, conducted amidst his ongoing pursuit of the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, paints a picture of a candidate eager to contrast his record with that of the current Biden administration, particularly regarding economic and energy independence.

Trump's central argument revolved around his administration's success in boosting domestic energy production. He repeatedly emphasized what he characterized as "record production" and "the lowest prices, ever, ever in history." This claim aligns with data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) during his presidency, which did show a period of significant increase in US oil and natural gas production, reaching record highs in 2019. However, factors beyond administration policy, such as advancements in fracking technology and global demand, also played a considerable role. Trump directly blamed current rising energy prices on the policies enacted by the Biden administration, stating unequivocally, "It's Biden. It's Biden's policies. And he's destroyed our energy independence." Critics of the current administration point to the halting of new oil and gas leases on federal lands and increased environmental regulations as contributing factors to higher energy costs. Conversely, the Biden administration argues that these policies are vital to addressing the climate crisis and transitioning to a sustainable energy future, and that external factors like the war in Ukraine have also significantly impacted global energy markets.

Beyond energy, Trump addressed persistent questions regarding his health, providing a direct and assertive response. "I'm in very good shape. I feel fantastic," he stated. He described the recent medical screening as "very comprehensive," detailing specific tests including a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, which he said yielded "very good" results. A PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood, and elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer. While Trump characterized his results as positive, the interpretation of PSA levels is complex and requires further medical evaluation. He also revealed he underwent a heart examination.

Interestingly, Trump acknowledged a potential concern flagged during the cardiac testing. "They said I have to check it more often. They don't see anything wrong, but they said to check it more often," he explained. This disclosure, while seemingly reassuring, introduces a nuance to his blanket assertion of being in "very good" condition. The need for more frequent cardiac monitoring suggests a potential underlying issue that requires continued surveillance, a detail notably absent from initial public statements following the screening. Medical experts have emphasized the importance of regular preventative screenings, particularly for individuals in high-risk categories, or those with a family history of heart disease. Trump, at 77 years old (as of February 18th, 2026), falls within an age group where cardiovascular health is a key concern.

The interview, strategically released as Trump ramps up his campaign efforts, aims to quell concerns about his age and fitness for office - both legitimate points of discussion given his history as the oldest president ever elected. By proactively addressing health questions and touting his administration's perceived economic successes, Trump seeks to project an image of strength and competence. The framing of his health as "fantastic" and the emphasis on positive test results are clearly designed to counter any negative narratives. However, the acknowledgement of the need for continued cardiac monitoring introduces a degree of complexity that may invite further scrutiny from both the media and his political opponents.

The 2024 presidential race is shaping up to be a rematch between Trump and President Biden, and economic issues, particularly energy prices, are certain to be central to the debate. Trump's aggressive defense of his past policies and his direct attacks on the Biden administration signal a strategy focused on highlighting perceived failures and capitalizing on voter anxieties about the economy. The public's perception of Trump's health will also undoubtedly play a role in the election, and his attempts to control the narrative through interviews like this one will be closely watched.