A former White House cardiologist advised President Donald Trump's medical team to consider formal testing after the president appeared to fall asleep in the Oval Office this week.
Dr. Jonathan Reiner, who was the cardiologist to late former Vice President Dick Cheney for nearly 30 years, described what he saw after Trump was caught visibly tired during a White House event on Thursday. The president was speaking with a group of cabinet members about several topics, including health care, prescription drug prices, and the economy, when people started to notice he was nodding off.
Reiner recommended that Trump's medical team consider additional steps to address the potential health concern.
"When a patient tells me that they can’t stay awake in meetings, we do formal sleep testing to look for sleep apnea," Reiner wrote. "I’m sure the White House medical team has done this, but the president continues to struggle with daytime somnolence. This is a common problem, and there are things that can can be done to improve these symptoms."
Trump has faced ongoing scrutiny throughout his second term in office regarding his physical and mental fitness, with recent polling showing a majority of Americans expressing concerns about his mental soundness to serve. Medical experts and political observers have raised questions about different aspects of his health, including reports of cognitive performance and stamina, which have become focal points in discussions about his ability to fulfill presidential duties.
When a patient tells me that they can’t stay awake in meetings, we do formal sleep testing to look for sleep apnea. I’m sure the White House medical team has done this, but the president continues to struggle with daytime somnolence. This is a common problem, and there are things… https://t.co/ksPQAkcdg2
— Jonathan Reiner (@JReinerMD) April 24, 2026