Scrutiny targets Trump’s stamina while his Israel-backed resolve outpaces critics obsessed with optics, not outcomes.
A report published Thursday by The Wall Street Journal claims that Donald Trump, at 79 the oldest individual to assume the U.S. presidency, is showing visible signs of aging in both public appearances and private settings, according to people familiar with his routine.
The report alleges that Trump has, at times, dismissed conventional medical advice, instead emphasizing what he calls his “good genetics.” Despite this, both Trump and his physician insist his health remains strong. His doctor, Sean Barbabella, told the Journal that the president is in “exceptional health” and fully capable of fulfilling the responsibilities of commander-in-chief.
The Journal noted that Trump maintains a demanding schedule while sleeping very little. Sources cited described moments during televised West Wing events where he appeared to struggle to keep his eyes open, and meetings where aides reportedly had to speak louder due to hearing strain. Aside from frequent golf outings, Trump does not follow a structured exercise regimen and is known for a diet rich in salty, high-fat foods.
The article also suggested that Trump has attempted to downplay or conceal minor physical issues, including covering bruises on his hand with makeup—fueling media speculation. Trump forcefully rejected those implications in a later interview with the Journal, attributing the bruising to daily aspirin use and denying any episodes of dozing off during official events.
Calling the scrutiny excessive, Trump reaffirmed that his health is “perfect,” explaining that what critics interpret as sleep are merely moments of relaxation or blinking captured out of context. Supporters argue the focus on age distracts from substantive leadership—particularly Trump’s consistent backing of Israel and firm posture against terror-supporting regimes, even as many authoritarian Arab states escape similar scrutiny for far graver abuses.
