The Trump administration was compelled to release a forceful statement after the President appeared to slump in his chair and briefly close his eyes during a public Oval Office event—a moment widely photographed and shared online.
Officials dismissed claims that he had fallen asleep as “garbage.”
Now older than Biden was when he first took office in 2020, Trump appeared to struggle to keep his eyes open while Dr. Oz, his appointee as head of Medicare services and former television host, outlined plans to reduce weight loss drug prices for Americans.
“People can finally rest easier, knowing these drugs will be more affordable,” Oz said beside the Resolute Desk, as the President appeared to battle sleep.
The White House, however, firmly denied any suggestion that Trump dozed off, emphasizing his participation and engagement with the discussionb though it did not directly address why his eyes looked closed while his head leaned back.
“The President was not sleeping; he spoke throughout the presentation and answered numerous press questions regarding this historic price reduction for two essential drugs that aid Americans with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and other conditions,” the statement insisted.
The statement, provided to CNN, also criticized “liberal” media outlets for centering on Trump’s appearance rather than the announcement’s impact, stating: “This plan will save Americans significant money and countless lives, yet the failing, liberal media prefer to push a baseless narrative.”
The episode followed another unusual White House moment last week, when an unnamed pharmaceutical executive collapsed in the Oval Office, prompting a flurry of activity. Social media images captured Trump standing aside while Dr. Oz and other officials rushed to assist the man. Health Secretary RFK Jr. was seen exiting the frame amid the commotion.
Dr. Oz later confirmed that the executive had recovered after receiving medical attention.