Trump dozes off during White House meeting, sparking online debate

Photos of US President Donald Trump seemingly dozing during a White House event on Thursday have sparked widespread discussion and debate on social media.

The event, focused on announcing reduced prices for obesity medications, featured Trump alongside senior officials. In several moments captured on camera, the 79-year-old president appeared to close his eyes, occasionally rubbing his face or struggling to keep his eyes open.

White House Responds

White House Assistant Press Secretary Taylor Rogers denied that Trump had fallen asleep during the event, emphasizing: "The president spoke extensively and answered reporters’ questions during an announcement that marks a historic achievement, providing essential medications at lower prices for millions of Americans."

"Instead of focusing on this important event, the failing liberal media continues to promote misleading narratives that do not serve the American people," she added.

Health Questions and Context

The images come amid renewed questions about the health of the US president. Trump has undergone medical exams in recent months, including an MRI scan and tests on his legs, after being diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency.

Observers note that moments of fatigue are not unique to Trump; previous presidents, including Barack Obama and Joe Biden, have also appeared exhausted during long conferences.

Public Reactions

The online reaction has been divided, reflecting political divides:

• One user wrote: "Imagine if President Biden had done this? The media narrative for four years was that Biden was too old to do the job and now Trump is literally passing out behind his desk but all we hear is crickets."
• Another commented: "Trump works many hours a day. So he fell asleep. We all have."
• Some criticized media coverage, noting perceived double standards: "The media ignored/actively covered up Biden's mental decline for years… but Trump falls asleep in one meeting and they put two reporters on it to analyze every video angle."
• Others demanded accountability: "We still don't know why this man underwent a nonstandard MRI scan last month… Trump must resign immediately!"

The incident highlights ongoing debates over Trump’s fitness for office and the role of the media in covering the health and stamina of US presidents.