Former U.S. President Trump Says "I Won't Get the Booster Shot"

▲Former U.S. President Donald Trump [Image source=AP News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed his intention not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine booster shot.

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) published on the 3rd (local time), former President Trump said, "I feel like I am in good health," and added, "I probably will not get (the booster shot)."

He also stated, "I will look into this matter later," and "I am not opposed to this (booster shot), but it probably won't be for me."

U.S. authorities have announced that starting from the week of the 20th, booster shots will be administered to those who completed their vaccination more than eight months ago.

With the spread of the Delta variant putting the U.S. on alert again, Trump, who holds significant influence over the Republican base, has revealed his reluctance to receive the booster shot.

During his presidency, from the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak last year, Trump made remarks that seemed to downplay the virus's risks and prioritized economic normalization over compliance with preventive measures such as mask-wearing.

Subsequently, the U.S. fell into a severe pandemic situation, ranking first worldwide in confirmed cases and deaths, which analysts say contributed to Trump's defeat in last year's presidential election.

In early October last year, about a month before the election day, Trump and his wife tested positive for COVID-19, and Trump was hospitalized for three days.

Former President Trump had not clearly stated his plans regarding vaccination. However, it was later revealed through the media that he received his first dose privately at the White House just before leaving office on January 20th.

This contrasted with President Joe Biden and other key political figures who chose to receive their vaccinations publicly to encourage others.

Trump's negative stance on the booster shot may be influenced by his awareness of the Republican base.

Last month, during a speech to his supporters in Alabama, he recommended vaccination but was booed by the audience.

Unlike the mostly favorable Democratic base toward vaccination in various polls, 30-40% of Republican supporters often respond that they do not intend to get vaccinated.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.