Mounting concerns surround the mental and physical fitness of former President Donald Trump, who asserted that he is currently more cognitively sound than ever before. On Thursday, January 18, Newsweek reported that critics, including Trump’s biographer, are openly questioning whether the 77-year-old has the capacity to lead if he were to reclaim the White House in 2024.
During a New Hampshire rally on Wednesday, January 17, Trump proudly declared that his cognitive health is “better than it was 20 years ago,” asserting that he feels “about 35 years old.” However, author Tim O’Brien, who extensively researched Trump for his 2005 book TrumpNation, disputed this claim on social media.
“I flew around with him in his plane and walked his golf courses with him 20 years ago… Not very cognitively together then. Much less cognitively better now,” O’Brien tweeted.
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This public exchange has fueled renewed skepticism about Trump’s mental sharpness and vitality as he embarks on another presidential bid. Critics point to Trump’s age, disjointed rhetorical style, and occasional slurred speech as red flags.
Former Trump aide Alyssa Farah Griffin remarked, “It’s kind of remarkable. He is slowing down. I’m stunned having spent a lot of time with him in 2020 and years before.”
While Trump insists on being in peak health, citing a letter from his physician rating his cognitive ability as “exceptional,” demands for updated medical records are growing as the 2024 campaign gains momentum.
Voters, recalling a more vigorous Trump from 2016, are left to ponder whether the toll of age and political battles has diminished the once bombastic leader they knew. With Trump already labeling Joe Biden as “old” and “slow,” scrutiny over his own cognition is likely to intensify.
As Trump’s allies dismiss talk of “cognitive decline” as a partisan smear, Americans are anticipating clarity on whether the aspiring commander-in-chief remains fit to serve. In the midst of his third presidential run gaining speed, Trump faces increasing pressure to substantiate that his mental sharpness and vigor align with his boundless political ambition.
Vague claims of feeling “35 years old” fall short. Voters rightfully demand full transparency regarding whether Trump’s capabilities meet the demands of the presidency or are diminishing with age.
