Trump Defends Mental Fitness Amid Ongoing Health Speculations

In a recent speech, President Trump defended his mental fitness by discussing his experiences with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. He claimed to have aced the test multiple times and criticized media coverage for focusing on easier questions. As he navigates his second term, Trump faces ongoing scrutiny regarding his health, particularly in light of recent comments that sparked discussions about cognitive slips. He also contrasted his abilities with those of former President Biden, asserting that Biden would struggle with the test. Trump's remarks reflect his efforts to address health speculations while managing various domestic and international challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 23, 2026, 04:48 IST

Trump Discusses Cognitive Test Experience

During a recent event in New York, President Donald Trump addressed concerns regarding his mental fitness, specifically referencing the cognitive tests he has undergone. He mentioned the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a tool designed to evaluate cognitive impairment. Trump noted that while the initial questions were straightforward, they escalated in difficulty. He recounted one question: “You have a bear, a snake, an elephant, and a horse — name the horse.”

Trump elaborated on the more complex aspects of the test, which included math challenges that required quick thinking. He recalled a specific problem: “Pick a number, sir. Okay. 203. Multiply times 9. Divide by 2. Add on 1,324. Subtract 1,292. Sir, multiply it out one more time by 19. What is the answer, sir?” He proudly stated, “And I got it right!”

Claiming he has excelled in the test each time he took it, Trump stated, “I’ve aced it all three times.” He shared that a doctor who administered the test remarked, “I’ve been doing this test for 20 years. I’ve never seen anybody ace it.” Trump criticized media coverage, particularly from a prominent newspaper, for focusing solely on the easier questions while neglecting the more challenging ones.

These comments come as Trump faces ongoing scrutiny regarding his health, especially as he approaches his second term. Earlier on the same day, he made remarks about his son that ignited discussions online about potential cognitive lapses. The White House has consistently defended the president's health, asserting he is in excellent condition.

In his speech, Trump contrasted his cognitive abilities with those of former President Joe Biden, whom he has often criticized for perceived incompetence. He quipped, “Biden wouldn’t even get the first question. I don’t think he can get them! Which is the bear? Which is the horse?”

The Montreal Cognitive Assessment typically includes tasks such as identifying animals, drawing a clock, recalling words, and performing basic arithmetic. A perfect score is 30, with scores between 26 and 30 deemed normal. Trump first disclosed that he had taken the test during his 2020 campaign to counteract doubts about his mental acuity, and he has continued to speak positively about it in public forums. His latest remarks highlight his ongoing efforts to quell speculation regarding his health while managing various domestic and international issues, including tensions with Iran and economic challenges at home.