Trump Faces Criticism Over Drowsiness During Oval Office Event
Concerns Arise Over Trump's Alertness
President Donald Trump is under renewed scrutiny following a viral video from the Oval Office that shows him leaning over the Resolute Desk with his eyes shut. This footage, which gained traction on the social media platform X, has reignited discussions about the 79-year-old president's ability to remain awake during official functions. Journalist Aaron Rupar shared the clip, commenting that Trump appeared “about to hit REM on camera,” which led to a wave of reactions online. Critics, including former Representative Adam Kinzinger, ridiculed the president, while political analysts and social media users labeled the moment as “embarrassing.” California Governor Gavin Newsom also took a jab, implying that Trump was “asleep at the wheel.”
Trump is about to hit REM on camera during an Oval Office event. It's just incredible. pic.twitter.com/h0BwcHLURJ
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 23, 2026
Medical experts have also expressed concerns. Cardiologist and CNN medical analyst Jonathan Reiner suggested that repeated signs of drowsiness might indicate “daytime somnolence,” a condition often associated with sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. He mentioned that while these symptoms are common and treatable, he presumed that the White House medical team would have assessed the president's health.
This incident is not an isolated case. Trump has appeared drowsy at various events throughout the year, including speeches by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. Nevertheless, Trump has consistently denied allegations of falling asleep, claiming he merely rests his eyes during lengthy, “boring” meetings while remaining attentive.
Debunking the Viral Image
fake
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 24, 2026
In light of the recent speculation, a widely circulated image claiming to depict Trump asleep in the Oval Office also emerged online. This photo quickly gained popularity, with many users presenting it as evidence that the president had dozed off during official duties. However, the authenticity of this image was soon called into question. Aaron Rupar, who initially shared the video, clarified that the viral photo was fake and not derived from the actual footage. He encouraged users to refer to the genuine video instead of the misleading image.
As Trump approaches his 80th birthday in June, he has consistently refuted such claims, asserting that he does not fall asleep in public and occasionally closes his eyes briefly while listening.