Signs of Declining Health and Political Support for Donald Trump
Donald Trump, at 79, the oldest person ever elected president, shows visible signs of declining health amid a diminished public presence. Observers note he appears tired, often seen with sallow and thicker makeup, frequently nodding off in public settings including cabinet and Oval Office events. His schedule has lightened considerably, with more frequent visits to golf clubs, fewer stadium rallies, and later start times for engagements. Public appearances have dropped by nearly 40% compared with his first year in office, according to a New York Times report.
Physical indicators include a frequently injured or discolored right hand, often bandaged or concealed with makeup, and swollen ankles. While the White House attributes the bruising to extensive handshaking, experts express skepticism. Earlier in the year, Trump disclosed undergoing an MRI scan in October; he claimed favorable results from doctors, though the physician described the MRI as a preventative imaging of the heart and abdomen, which experts say is not typical MRI use. Trump also reported taking a cognitive test and performing well, but no further details were provided.
Politically, polls show Trump trailing across a majority of states and nearly all demographics, fueling perceptions that his political strength is waning and support for a third term is decreasing. The Republican base appears less inclined to endorse another presidential bid. Adding to health and legitimacy debates, Trump placed an autopen portrait of Joe Biden on the presidential Walk of Fame, symbolizing perceived incapacity and framing these concerns within wider political narratives about leadership and legitimacy.
