The Blood Matters Blog ·

The Blood Types of American Presidents: What Do We Know?

The blood types of American presidents are not public information, leaving the blood types of many of the country's presidents to be lost to history. But here's what we do know.

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Illustration of Mount Rushmore and President George Washington asking about presidential blood types

In an age where we know everything from the dietary preferences of public figures to the daily routines of world leaders, one piece of information remains largely elusive: the blood types of U.S. presidents. While presidential health is often a matter of public concern, details like blood type tend to remain confidential. Still, the question persists: Do we know the blood types of any American presidents?

Presidential Health: A Matter of Public Interest

Throughout history, the health of American presidents has been a subject of fascination and debate. When Franklin D. Roosevelt's polio was revealed after his death, or when John F. Kennedy’s struggle with Addison's disease came to light, the public realized that presidential health often influences decision-making and governance. In fact, the 25th Amendment to the Constitution, which addresses presidential succession, was created in part to deal with issues of incapacitation. However, while many health details of presidents are eventually revealed — heart conditions, surgeries, and even mental health struggles — blood type is rarely, if ever, disclosed.

Do We Know Any Presidential Blood Types?

To varying degrees, yes, we do have a good idea about blood types for at least some past U.S. presidents.

Why Isn't Every President's Blood Type Public Information?

Just as it does for any other American citizen, the blood type of a U.S. president is considered protected health information. Unless a president or their family chooses to disclose such information, their blood type will remain officially private.

What's Your Blood Type?

Has all this talk of presidential blood types got you wondering about your own? Visit our blood types page for additional information on specific blood types, the Rh antigen's role in our blood and what makes someone a rare donor.

Learn About Your Blood Type

You're Our Type!

No matter your blood type, your donation matters! Based on your blood type and community need, you could be an even more impactful platelet or plasma donor than a traditional whole blood donor. Call us at 877-340-8777 or book your appointment online or through the OBI app and we'll let you know!

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