Trump sparks speculation with strange claim about Don Jr: 'Code for something?'
Donald Trump Jr. listens as U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks to U.S. embassy personnel and business leaders at Deerfield Residence, the residence of the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, in Dublin, Ireland, September 12, 2026. REUTERS/Kylie Cooper

President Donald Trump made a strange claim about his eldest son's behavior in Ireland on Saturday that has fueled dark speculation among their critics.

Trump's speech to U.S. embassy personnel and business leaders at the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland's Dublin residence included a passing comment about Don Trump Jr., who accompanied the president on his trip.

"He's calmed down so much, you know," Trump said. "It's amazing. No, it's a good sign. He's like a different human being. He had a lot of energy. Now he's a little less energy. That's a good thing."

While Trump attributed his son's change in mood to his recent marriage in May to socialite Bettina Anderson, online critics had other ideas.

In a post on X, economist Tony Annett suggested, "This seems to be code for something."

Trump Jr. has denied he uses cocaine and openly complained about the accusation in 2023, arguing he is just impassioned. This denial hasn't quashed jokes about Don Jr. and cocaine, which once again flooded the internet on Saturday.

"Translation: Don isn't on cocaine at the moment," writer Tony Bell posted.

Former DOJ official Marie Blanchard asked, "Is he saying Don jr is finally off speed? I doubt that."

Trump notably skipped Don Jr.'s wedding in the Bahamas after saying, "If I do attend, I get killed." On Saturday, Trump noted, "Don's here with a whole group — whole group of family."

Speaking about Melania, Trump said, "My wife is here — my wife is here in spirit."