Recent appearances by the president and his schedule have sparked numerous rumors, possibly partly due to his political activities, writes The Guardian.
What is Trump's health status?
He has begun to look more tired than before. His artificial tan has lost its richness and is applied less neatly than it used to be. He increasingly falls asleep in front of the camera, which is noticeable during meetings and press conferences.
Trump's schedule has become less active: he spends more time at his golf clubs, travels less frequently, and hardly holds mass rallies, which were characteristic of his first term. He often prefers to sit while others stand, and his workday often starts only after noon.
According to the New York Times, the number of his public appearances has decreased by 40% compared to the first year of his presidency. Sometimes he disappears for several days, which also raises questions about his health. His right hand is often covered with a bandage or makeup, leading to speculation about injuries; the White House even reported that he has bruises from frequent handshakes. Some photographs show swollen ankles.
Trump is 79 years old and has become the oldest president in U.S. history. He took office after criticizing Joe Biden, whose age became a topic of discussion following his awkward public appearances, raising doubts about his ability to lead the country.
In 2024, Trump used Biden's age and physical shortcomings as symbols of the Democratic Party's incompetence. After taking office in early 2025, he placed an image of a pen, symbolizing Biden's inability, in the spot where his official portrait was supposed to be.
However, questions are now arising about Trump's own health.
In October, he underwent an MRI but did not specify what exactly the doctors were looking for or what the results were. "I don't know exactly what they were checking," he said aboard Air Force One. "But the results were excellent, and they were impressed."
According to his physician, the scan was conducted to assess the condition of Trump's heart and abdomen and was "preventive." However, experts note that MRIs are not commonly used for preventive purposes and are usually ordered to monitor existing conditions.
Trump also stated, "I took a cognitive test and did great."
Despite these statements, it remains unclear whether Trump has any specific health issues, and it would be irresponsible to attempt to diagnose him. Nevertheless, his age and physical condition are becoming increasingly evident against the backdrop of his presidency. His tenure as president and leader of the Republican Party is nearing its end.
Speculation about Trump's health might be less relevant if his approval ratings were higher. However, his popularity has sharply declined, and recent polls show that he has negative ratings in most states and among most demographic groups.
The first months of his second term, filled with ambitious changes in federal bureaucracy and attempts to impose cultural transformations, have given way to a less active period, during which Trump's influence has become less noticeable. As his approval rating decreases, society begins to resist him, which in turn makes him less strong and less effective in his actions.
If Trump appears physically weak, it may partly be related to his weakened political position. Changing public opinion makes Republicans less willing to support him in attempts to pursue an illegal third term, as his chances of success seem negligible. With this change came the realization that Trump has become a "lame duck."
American democracy, or what remains of it, is under threat. It would not be safe even if Trump were in his best shape, and it will not be safe if he resigns. However, his apparent mortality changes the calculations of everyone, including himself.
As he ages, Trump is becoming more contemplative and melancholic, and he has recently begun to speak more frequently about death. "I think I might not make it to heaven," he said in October. "I'm not sure I can get to heaven."
