The White House found itself in a position to issue a strong statement following a public event in the Oval Office where President Trump appeared to slump and briefly close his eyes. The moment, captured in photographs and widely shared online, fueled much speculation.
Firm Denials from Officials
Despite the rampant online gossip that suggested he might have dozed off, the officials were quick to dismiss these claims as mere “garbage.” This might be a bit ironic, considering Trump’s earlier mockery of his predecessor as “Sleepy Joe,” which left him open to similar ridicule when images emerged of him apparently struggling to stay awake during a critical discussion.
This particular meeting was focused on the costs associated with weight loss medications. Even California Governor Gavin Newsom couldn’t resist joining in, cheekily tweeting “DOZY DON IS BACK” when the incident occurred.
Now older than President Biden was during his first term in 2020, Trump seemed to have difficulty keeping his eyes open while Dr. Oz, who is both a well-known television personality and now head of Medicare services, explained upcoming plans to make weight loss medications more affordable for the public.
During the presentation, Dr. Oz emphasized, “People can finally rest easier, knowing these drugs will be more affordable,” even as Trump seemed to struggle against sleep behind the Resolute Desk.
Tough Stance from the White House
The White House was adamant in refuting any insinuations that Trump had dozed off. They highlighted his active participation and engagement throughout the event. However, they did not specifically address why the President’s eyes appeared closed, nor why his head was leaning back during the presentation.
A statement released to CNN made clear, “The President was not sleeping; he spoke throughout the presentation and answered numerous press questions on this historic price reduction for two essential drugs that assist Americans with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and other conditions.”
The statement also took aim at “liberal” media outlets, accusing them of focusing unfairly on Trump’s appearance rather than the positive impacts of the drug pricing announcement: “This plan will save Americans significant money and countless lives, yet the failing, liberal media prefer to push a baseless narrative.”
The incident was reminiscent of another unusual episode at the White House the previous week, when a pharmaceutical executive collapsed during an event in the Oval Office. The President was seen standing aside while Dr. Oz and other officials moved swiftly to assist the fallen executive. Health Secretary RFK Jr. walked out of the frame amid the commotion captured on social media.
Dr. Oz later confirmed that the executive made a recovery after receiving the necessary medical attention, ensuring the public that all was well following the unexpected incident.
