The White House is implementing measures to address fallout over public concerns over Donald Trump either dozing off or appearing to fall asleep during televised events in the Oval Office.
According to a New Year's Day Wall Street Journal report on Trump's health, the 79-year-old president has visibly slowed according to White House insiders since his first term ended following his 2020 loss to President Joe Biden. People close to Trump report he is "showing signs of aging in public and private," with sleep deprivation emerging as a concern within his inner circle.
The Journal reports that Trump receives minimal sleep and has recently struggled to remain alert during televised West Wing events. Trump stated in an interview that he typically begins work early at an office in the White House residence before descending to the Oval Office around 10 a.m., working until 7 p.m. or 8 p.m.
Staff members have advised Trump to moderate his schedule and remain vigilant about maintaining alertness during public appearances. The optics of the president appearing to doze off have prompted concern among his advisers. Cameras captured Trump appearing to doze in December during a cabinet meeting and in November during an announcement about reducing costs for weight-loss medication.
The report states, "Trump’s staff have also counseled him to try to keep his eyes open during public events."
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles has joined others in addressing the situation. "Wiles and others have urged cabinet members to shorten their presentations, according to administration officials," the report notes, representing an attempt to minimize extended periods requiring Trump's sustained attention.
When confronted about the issue, Trump dismissed concerns, telling the Journal, "I'll just close [my eyes]. It's very relaxing to me. Sometimes they'll take a picture of me blinking, blinking, and they'll catch me with the blink."
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