Alex Bruesewitz, a 27-year-old political strategist and adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, collapsed on stage during the New York Young Republican Club gala on Sunday night, prompting alarm among attendees. The incident occurred at Cipriani Wall Street in Manhattan as Bruesewitz was introducing incoming White House senior aide Dan Scavino.
In a video shared on social media, Bruesewitz appeared to struggle with his words before stating, "I'm forgetting my words." Moments later, he froze, lost balance, and fell to the side, bringing the lectern down with him. The crowd gasped as multiple people rushed to assist him.
The unexpected collapse left attendees shaken, but updates provided some reassurance. Political activist Jack Posobiec later wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "Just talked to @alexbruesewitz backstage ... He is getting checked out by medical after having a brief fainting spell onstage. All levels are normal. He'll be just fine."
President-elect Trump also addressed the situation, expressing confidence in Bruesewitz's recovery. "I know that Alex is going to be fine because he's a tough son of a gun," Trump said during a call to the event. "There's no doubt about that. So I want to say hello to Alex, because he's a very special guy."
Update on the health of my client & friend @alexbruesewitz:
He is still admitted to a hospital in New York where he has undergone a series of tests.
Please keep this young fighter in your thoughts and prayers. pic.twitter.com/42hRPAA1IT — Joseph D. McBride, Esq. (@McBrideLawNYC) December 16, 2024
Raheem Kassam, who served as the event's master of ceremonies, assured attendees that Bruesewitz was in stable condition. "I talked to our friend Alex Bruesewitz, and you know what he said to me? He goes, 'Did I at least look cool?'" Kassam said, adding humor to lighten the mood. "I said, 'Alex, you used gravity like I've seen nobody use gravity before in their lives.' But he's recuperating back there, so give him a big cheer so he'll hear you."
Bruesewitz is the CEO of X Strategies LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to electing "America First" candidates and supporting Trump's political agenda. Known for his outspoken support of the MAGA movement, the firm describes him as a key player in replacing anti-Trump Republicans with candidates aligned with the movement's values.
Before the collapse, Bruesewitz appeared enthusiastic, praising the New York Young Republican Club for its support of Trump's campaign. He also acknowledged prominent attendees, including former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz, who recently stepped down from his U.S. House seat, and Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist.
The cause of Bruesewitz's fainting spell remains unclear. While his medical team indicated no immediate health concerns, the incident has sparked broader discussions about the demanding pace and high-pressure environment faced by political consultants.
The gala featured several high-profile speakers, including Corey Lewandowski, a senior adviser to Trump, and was attended by influential figures from the Republican Party. The event highlighted ongoing support for Trump's agenda and the party's efforts to solidify its base ahead of the upcoming administration.
