On Thursday, Trump took center stage at an event focused on slashing costs for widely-used weight-loss medications. Positioned at the Resolute Desk, he was joined by other officials for the announcement.

During the event, there were moments when Trump’s eyes appeared to be closed, and at times, he seemed to have difficulty keeping them open, even rubbing his eyes occasionally.

These visuals quickly sparked criticism from his detractors. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s press office, a frequent critic of Trump, shared images from the event with the caption, “DOZY DON IS BACK.”

In response, White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers clarified to CNN that “the President was not asleep; he actively engaged throughout the announcement, fielding numerous questions from the press. This event marks a groundbreaking reduction in costs for Americans relying on two drugs essential for managing diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and other health issues.”

Rogers further criticized the media, stating, “This landmark announcement by President Trump promises to save substantial sums of money and countless American lives. Yet, the failing liberal media opts to peddle a misleading narrative rather than report on it.”

Trump appears in public regularly and participates in lengthy question-and-answer sessions with reporters. Aides and Cabinet members routinely praise his stamina and describe receiving phone calls or messages from him at all hours.

A day before Thursday’s event, Trump travelled to Miami for an economic speech that lasted more than an hour. He also completed a three-nation swing through Asia at the end of last month.

Still, questions about Trump’s health have persisted since he took office as the oldest man ever inaugurated to the job. The 79-year-old president said last month that he received an MRI during a physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre without saying why.

More than the summer, the White House announced that doctors examined Trump for swelling in his legs and diagnosed him with chronic venous insufficiency. It’s a condition in which valves inside certain veins don’t work the way they should, which can allow blood to pool or collect in the veins.

All presidents, at moments, have appeared tired in public. Even a much younger president like Barack Obama would occasionally rub fatigued eyes during long summits.

Trump has harshly criticised former President Joe Biden for a lack of vigour, labelling him “Sleepy Joe” in last year’s election and continuing to use the moniker. Biden, the oldest president in history, was also seen at moments closing his eyes during public events.