UPDATE: President Donald Trump wished everyone a “great holiday week” during a Cabinet meeting on December 5, 2023, despite Thanksgiving having just passed. His comment raised eyebrows as he appeared visibly fatigued and even confused about the current holiday calendar.
During the televised meeting, Trump’s weariness was apparent, with several instances showing him struggling to stay alert. Video clips circulating on social media depict the president closing his eyes, prompting reactions from users questioning his awareness of the holiday timeline. One commenter quipped, “I guess we’re doing weeklong Pearl Harbor Day celebrations?” while another sarcastically noted, “Just because your brain’s always off doesn’t mean the rest of us are on holiday.”
Despite his attempts to streamline the meeting by urging Cabinet members to speak quickly, the lengthy presentations continued. Trump’s apparent fatigue contrasted sharply with his previous assertions of stamina, particularly in response to a recent critical New York Times article assessing his capabilities at age 79. The president defended himself during the meeting, insisting he was “sharper than I was 25 years ago” and dismissively referred to the Times, asserting, “Trump is sharp, but they’re not sharp.”
The Cabinet meeting lasted approximately three hours, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later defending Trump’s performance. Leavitt stated, “He has been listening attentively and running the entire three-hour marathon Cabinet meeting,” emphasizing the president’s commitment to his duties.
As the meeting unfolded, the public’s attention turned to the president’s physical demeanor. Observers noted that Trump appeared to be fighting off sleep, often sitting back with drooping eyes. His struggle to maintain alertness during such an important gathering has led to widespread discussions about his current state and effectiveness as president.
The reactions on social media reflect a growing concern and humor over Trump’s recent behavior. Comments ranged from disbelief to lighthearted jabs, illustrating the public’s engagement with the president’s state of mind.
As the holiday season approaches, many are left wondering about the implications of Trump’s apparent fatigue on his leadership. With Christmas just over three weeks away, the president’s ability to effectively govern is in the spotlight.
What’s Next: Observers will be closely watching the administration’s upcoming engagements and how Trump handles vital issues leading into the holiday season. The public reaction to his Cabinet meeting performance may influence perceptions as the political landscape shifts closer to the new year.
