Viral Video Shows Trump Appearing Drowsy at White House Event

U.S. President Donald Trump sparked a wave of speculation on social media after appearing to doze off during a White House event, prompting questions about his health and stamina at age 79.

Photos circulated widely over the weekend showing Trump with his eyes closed or rubbing them intermittently while delivering remarks from behind his desk in the Oval Office. The event, held on Thursday, focused on historic reductions in the prices of weight-loss and heart medications, with the president flanked by senior officials.

Critics quickly seized on the images. Gavin Newsom, California’s governor and one of Trump’s prominent political opponents, posted the photos on X with a caption reading: “Sleepy Don is back!”

The White House pushed back, insisting the president was fully engaged. In a statement to CNN, spokesperson Taylor Rogers said:

“The president was not asleep. He spoke throughout the event and answered numerous questions from reporters regarding a historic initiative to lower drug prices, rather than letting Americans focus on false narratives promoted by failing liberal media.”

Trump’s aides emphasize his long-standing work ethic, noting his frequent public appearances, extended Q&A sessions with journalists, and constant communication with staff, even during travel. Over the past weeks, Trump completed a one-hour economic speech in Miami and concluded a multi-nation Asian tour, demonstrating a packed schedule.

However, questions about the president’s health have surfaced periodically. Reports indicate he recently underwent MRI scans at Walter Reed Medical Center, and the White House previously disclosed a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that affects blood flow in the veins.

Observers note that occasional public fatigue is not uncommon among U.S. presidents, with figures like Barack Obama also appearing visibly tired during long summits. Yet the images of Trump carry additional political resonance, as he had previously mocked President Joe Biden’s energy levels, dubbing him “Sleepy Joe.”

As debate continues, the images underscore the challenges public figures face in managing appearances, health perceptions, and political narratives in an age dominated by rapid social media scrutiny.