Trump Declares “Perfect Health” Amid Renewed Scrutiny Over Fitness for Office

Ahmed Mohammed 02/01/2026
U.S. President Donald Trump calls children while tracking Santa with NORAD on Christmas Eve at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, December 24, 2025. (AFP)
U.S. President Donald Trump calls children while tracking Santa with NORAD on Christmas Eve at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, December 24, 2025. (AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Friday insisted he remains in “perfect health” and mentally sharp, following a Wall Street Journal interview that reignited debate over his well-being at age 79.

Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump said White House doctors confirmed his excellent condition and that he had “aced” his cognitive exam for the third consecutive time — a test he claimed no other president or vice president has been willing to take.

The Journal interview, published Thursday, highlighted Trump’s explanations for visible bruising on his hand, which he attributed to aspirin use, and his denial of reports that he had nodded off during televised meetings. He also clarified that a recent medical scan was a CT rather than an MRI.

Throughout his career, Trump has emphasized vigor and stamina, often projecting strength through constant media engagement, social media activity, and even AI-generated memes portraying him as a superhero. Yet, his second term has been marked by growing questions about his health.

Observers have noted persistent bruising on his right hand, swelling in his ankles, and moments where he appeared to struggle to keep his eyes open — including during a November Oval Office meeting with health officials. Trump dismissed such concerns, saying he was simply relaxing and that photographs sometimes misrepresent him mid-blink.

In his Friday post, Trump went further, calling for mandatory cognitive testing for all presidential and vice-presidential candidates. “Our great Country cannot be run by ‘STUPID’ or INCOMPETENT PEOPLE!” he wrote, in what appeared to be a jab at his predecessor Joe Biden, who exited the 2024 race after a debate performance fueled concerns about his age and mental sharpness.

Ahmed Mohammed

02/01/2026