Trump at 80: A president ‘really uncomfortable’ with ageing
President Donald Trump turned 80, prompting the White House to emphasize his health and stamina. Recent incidents, such as him appearing to doze off during a Knicks game and leaning in the Oval Office, have fueled public speculation about his age and fitness. White House officials and his physician have repeatedly asserted that he remains in excellent health and capable of fulfilling his duties.
- ▪A Reuters/Ipsos poll in February found that nearly six in ten Americans think Trump is becoming more erratic as he ages.
- ▪Trump was observed appearing to doze off during a New York Knicks game, which his ally James Dolan publicly denied, saying the president was fully awake.
- ▪During a June 4 Oval Office meeting, Trump leaned to the side and closed his eyes, which officials say was to hear the speaker better, not a sign of fatigue.
- ▪Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, the president’s physician, reported that the 79‑year‑old Trump "remains in excellent health, demonstrating strong cardiac, pulmonary, neurological and overall physical function."
- ▪White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that elite doctors have confirmed Trump is fully fit to carry out all duties of commander in chief.
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PremiumHome / WorldTrump at 80: A president ‘really uncomfortable’ with ageingKatie RogersNew York Times·14 Jun, 2026 09:44 PM14 mins to readGift articleSaveShareShare this articleReminder, this is a Premium article and requires a subscription to read.Copy LinkEmailFacebookTwitter/XLinkedInRedditAs US President Donald Trump turns 80, the White House is defending his health and stamina. Photo / Eric Lee, The New York Times Even for a president known for imposing his own reality on every situation, Donald Trump has not outrun scrutiny over his age. He stays up late, phoning lawyers and lawmakers, while posting up to 150 times a night on Truth Social. His mornings involve calls with world leaders about the war in the Middle East, or talks with landscapers about replanting a bothersome tree.
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