Trump defends health claims, touts cognitive test results amid renewed scrutiny

Friday 02 January 2026 - 16:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Trump defends health claims, touts cognitive test results amid renewed scrutiny

Former US President Donald Trump has once again declared himself in "perfect health," stating that he has passed a cognitive test for the third consecutive time. The remarks, made on his Truth Social platform on Friday, came amid intensified debate over his fitness for office following recent public scrutiny.

Trump claimed that White House doctors had confirmed his "perfect health" and that he had "aced" the cognitive test by achieving a perfect score. He asserted that no other President or Vice President had demonstrated a willingness to take such an examination. Additionally, he renewed his call for mandatory cognitive testing for anyone running for the presidency or vice presidency, arguing that the nation cannot be governed by "stupid or incompetent people."

The statement followed an interview with The Wall Street Journal, in which the 79-year-old addressed questions surrounding his health. Trump attributed visible bruises on his hand to daily aspirin use and denied reports of falling asleep during public meetings, describing such claims as misinterpretations of his habit of closing his eyes for relaxation. He also revised an earlier comment about undergoing an MRI scan in October, clarifying that it had been a quicker CT scan instead.

Since his return to office in January, Trump’s health has drawn increased attention. Photographs of dark bruises on his right hand, occasional ankle swelling, and moments where he appeared to struggle with keeping his eyes open have fueled speculation. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed these concerns, attributing the bruises to frequent handshaking and Trump’s habit of taking 325 milligrams of aspirin daily four times the recommended low-dose amount. Trump acknowledged that doctors had advised him to reduce his intake but said he continues the practice partly out of superstition, believing it helps maintain proper blood flow and prevents potential heart issues.

Trump has consistently projected an image of vitality through active media engagement and his portrayal as energetic and resilient. However, his first year of his second term has reignited questions about his physical condition. Addressing these concerns, Trump told the Journal that he was not dozing during public meetings but merely relaxing, adding that photos often capture him mid-blink.

In his post, Trump reiterated his push for cognitive testing for presidential candidates, widely regarded as a critique of his predecessor Joe Biden. Biden exited the 2024 presidential race following concerns over his age, exacerbated by a poor debate performance.