Yes, the Diet Coke button is back in the Oval Office, and its reappearance has sparked a series of reactions and raised eyebrows across the nation. But this button isn’t just about convenience—it’s a symbol of a very specific and long-standing habit of the former president. So, how many Diet Cokes does Donald Trump actually drink in a day? Let’s take a deep dive into this quirky part of his presidential lifestyle.
The Return of the Diet Coke Button: A Familiar Fixture in the Oval Office
The Diet Coke button has become synonymous with Trump’s time in office, and its return is making headlines once again. But to understand why it’s such a big deal, we need to take a look at its origins. The button, which is strategically placed on Trump’s desk, was a key feature of the Oval Office during his first term.
For context, the button serves a very specific purpose: when pressed, it calls for a butler or staff member to bring Trump his beloved Diet Coke. During the first term, this button became a symbol of Trump’s preference for the soda and his no-nonsense approach to getting what he wanted. His penchant for Diet Coke became a running joke in the media, and the button itself garnered plenty of attention.
However, when President Joe Biden took office, the Diet Coke button was notably absent from the Oval Office. Its removal was seen by some as a symbolic gesture, reflecting a shift in presidential preferences. Biden, for example, is known to favor coffee over soda, and this small but telling change in the Oval Office decor highlighted the contrast between the two administrations. But with Trump’s return to power, so too has the button made its comeback.
A Look at the Oval Office Decor: A Nod to the Past
Trump’s return to the White House isn’t just about the Diet Coke button. The Oval Office itself has undergone some changes as well. In true Trump fashion, the office now mirrors the decor from his first term, complete with portraits of historical figures like George Washington and a bust of Winston Churchill. These additions evoke a sense of continuity and nostalgia for his supporters, who see Trump as someone who values tradition and American history.
Of course, no discussion of the Oval Office would be complete without mentioning the Diet Coke button. Positioned prominently on Trump’s desk, the button is a conversation starter for anyone who enters the room. While its function may seem trivial to some, it is a key part of Trump’s daily routine, allowing him to indulge in his preferred soda without leaving his seat.
A Presidential Tradition: Call Buttons Through the Ages
The use of call buttons in the Oval Office dates back to previous administrations. Presidents have had various call buttons for different needs—whether it’s to summon an aide, receive important information, or request a beverage. However, Trump’s call button was unique in that it catered specifically to his Diet Coke habit.
The button itself is more than just a means of getting a soda; it is a reflection of Trump’s personality and his need for routine. Trump has been known to favor a fast-paced lifestyle, often skipping meals or opting for quick snacks between meetings. In this context, Diet Coke is seen as a simple indulgence, a way to stay alert and energized without the guilt of consuming more calories.
Former White House chef Andre Rush once commented on Trump’s soda habit, stating, “He’s always been on his soda trip. That’s all he drinks, 24/7.” While Trump has made efforts to eat healthier, his love for Diet Coke has remained unchanged, and the button is a testament to that.
The Diet Coke Debate: How Many Does Trump Drink?
Perhaps the most shocking aspect of this whole Diet Coke saga is the sheer quantity that Trump reportedly consumes. While the exact number fluctuates depending on the source, reports have suggested that Trump drinks anywhere from 8 to 12 cans of Diet Coke every day.
In 2017, The New York Times reported that Trump’s daily intake of Diet Coke was as high as 12 cans. For many, this was a jaw-dropping revelation. Health experts were quick to weigh in on the potential health risks associated with consuming such large amounts of soda, especially a sugar-free version. Diet sodas, while calorie-free, are often criticized for containing artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which some studies have linked to various health issues.
However, Trump has consistently downplayed any concerns about his Diet Coke habit. He has claimed that the soda doesn’t negatively impact his health, calling it a “harmless” indulgence. In fact, Trump has joked about his Diet Coke consumption, quipping that it’s not as bad as some people think.
Public Reactions: Shock and Amusement
It’s safe to say that Trump’s Diet Coke consumption has been a topic of much debate. On social media, people have expressed everything from disbelief to amusement at the sheer volume of soda the former president drinks. Some users have commented on how unusual it is for someone in such a high position of power to have such a specific and excessive preference for Diet Coke.
One social media user exclaimed, “12 Diet Cokes a day? That’s insane!” while another remarked, “The 12 Diet Cokes a day would kill a normal human… Go Trump!” While the comments may be tongue-in-cheek, they highlight the extent to which Trump’s soda habit has captured the public’s imagination.
Trump has always been a polarizing figure, and his Diet Coke obsession is no exception. Supporters of the former president see it as a quirky, harmless habit, while critics argue that it speaks to larger concerns about his health and well-being. Nevertheless, Trump remains unapologetic about his soda consumption, and as his second term unfolds, it seems unlikely that his Diet Coke intake will be slowing down anytime soon.
Health Experts Weigh In: Is It Harmful?
The question of whether drinking so much Diet Coke is harmful to one’s health is an important one, especially given Trump’s high profile and public persona. Health experts have long warned about the potential risks of consuming too much soda, including artificial sweeteners, which are commonly used in diet sodas. While some studies suggest that these sweeteners are safe in moderation, others have raised concerns about long-term health effects.
One of the biggest concerns about Diet Coke is the artificial sweeteners it contains, such as aspartame and acesulfame potassium. These chemicals have been the subject of numerous studies, with some researchers linking them to issues such as weight gain, headaches, and even cancer. However, the scientific community remains divided on the issue, with many experts arguing that the risks are minimal when consumed in moderation.
For Trump, the fact that he consumes so much Diet Coke each day raises questions about his health habits. Despite his advanced age, Trump has shown little interest in altering his diet or lifestyle. In fact, his reliance on Diet Coke seems to be an integral part of his daily routine, and it’s unlikely that he’ll be giving up his favorite beverage anytime soon.
Trump’s Commitment to His Habits
At the end of the day, Trump’s Diet Coke consumption is a reflection of his personality and approach to life. Whether it’s the reinstatement of the Diet Coke button or his continued love for the soda itself, it’s clear that certain habits die hard. While some may find his routine amusing or even concerning, it’s an integral part of who he is—and it’s likely to remain a fixture in his life for the foreseeable future.
As Trump embarks on his second term, his Diet Coke habit serves as a reminder of his consistency and commitment to the things that make him feel comfortable and in control. Whether or not the soda is doing him any favors health-wise remains a topic of debate, but for now, it seems like Trump is content to continue sipping on his Diet Coke, one can at a time.
