In a moment of presidential levity, former President Donald Trump was twice interrupted by his iPhone during a May 23, 2025, press conference in the Oval Office, where he was announcing executive orders on nuclear energy and outlining tariff policies on foreign-made smartphones.
As Trump sat at the historic Resolute Desk, surrounded by staff, press, and lawmakers, his phone began to ringโcutting through the formal atmosphere. Without skipping a beat, Trump glanced at the device and said with a smile:
โOh, itโs a phone call. Do you mind? โฆ Oh okay, itโs only a congressman.โ
The moment drew soft laughter from those gathered. But less than ten seconds later, the phone rang again.
โItโs a different congressman. Theyโre all congratulating us,โ he added, prompting even more chuckles.
The former president then silenced the phone and continued with the signing. When someone nearby asked, โIs that an iPhone, sir?โ, Trump answered with a grin:
โYes, lucky it is.โ
A Viral Presidential Moment
The unscripted exchange, captured by White House cameras, was quickly shared across social media platforms, with clips highlighting Trumpโs relaxed handling of the situation. Many noted the irony that the phone interruption came just as he was discussing tariffs targeting smartphone imports.
The moment provided a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of the former presidentโs unfiltered persona during a formal policy announcement, and it became one of the most talked-about moments of the day.
Trumpโs sense of humor and ability to disarm a roomโespecially when the unexpected happensโremains a signature trait, even in highly structured White House settings. While the signing ceremony was meant to highlight his administrationโs latest policy push, it was the ringtone and reactions that stole the spotlight.