The White House has forcefully responded to allegations that President Donald Trump appeared to fall asleep during a White House meeting on reproductive health. New footage showing Trump with his eyes closed in the Oval Office while others continued speaking has gone viral, sparking concerns about the nation's oldest-ever elected president.
White House Denies Sleep Claims
The Democrats' social media account dubbed Trump 'our nation's Commander-in-Sleep,' but the White House quickly pushed back. When a Reuters reporter shared the image without mentioning sleep, the Rapid Response 47 account—Trump's platform to counter 'fake news'—replied, 'He was blinking, you absolute moron.'
Trump's Previous Explanations
Trump has previously addressed such worries by stating he likes to close his eyes because it is 'very relaxing.' In December, he boasted about his intelligence before apparently dozing off in another meeting. Since returning to office, Trump has been seen struggling to stay awake on several occasions, including in July 2025 during a talk by Medicare administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz and in May 2025 during his hush money trial, where he fell asleep with his mouth open.
Health Concerns and Rare Admission
Trump remains notably tight-lipped about his health, which has raised concerns in both his first and second terms. However, in April, he made a rare admission on television while criticizing President Joe Biden. Trump claimed Biden 'couldn't walk up the stairs' and said, 'I have to be careful because if I do trip or fall, it's gonna be the biggest... That's why when I get out of those planes, I walk nice and slowly.' Biden has had several public stumbles, including tripping on Air Force One stairs and falling on stage. Trump himself was filmed stumbling on Air Force One stairs in July 2025 and has occasionally struggled with walking in a straight line.
The incident adds to ongoing discussions about the health and fitness of the nation's leaders.
