Trump’s positive Covid-19 result sparks questions over November 3 election, fall in global stocks
- The White House says the 74-year-old president can continue to perform his duties, as VP Mike Pence tested negative for the coronavirus
- Financial markets tumbled on the news as uncertainty grew over possible delays to the November 3 election and if Covid-19 would hit Trump hard
Key points
• President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for Covid-19 early on Friday, after senior aide Hope Hicks who travelled with the couple fell ill
• The White House says the President, who is 74, should be able to carry out his duties without disruption. He reportedly has mild, cold-like symptoms
• Financial markets tumbled on the news with investors warning of higher volatility; Asian stocks declined while the dollar and the yen climbed. US stock futures were negative
• Trump’s diagnosis has immediate political consequences just 31 days before a presidential contest already steeped in tension
• Analysts are asking whether other senior administration officials have been affected and if the November 3 election could be pushed back