The president Donald Trump, who in January became the oldest person to assume the presidency in the history of the United States, has been declared in "excellent health" after undergoing his first comprehensive medical exam since his return to the White House.
The evaluation, conducted last Friday at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, lasted nearly five hours and included physical tests as well as cognitive assessments.
In a letter released this Sunday by the White House, the presidential physician concluded that Trump, 78 years old, "exhibits excellent cognitive and physical health" and is "fully capable of performing the responsibilities of the head of state and commander-in-chief."
The president spoke with reporters aboard Air Force One while traveling to Florida after his medical check-up. There, he confirmed that he had undergone "every test imaginable" and joked that he had spent a lot of time in the hospital.
"The heart is strong, health is good, and the mind is well too. I have a good heart, a good soul, a very good soul," he said, staying true to his colloquial and self-satisfied style.
Trump also revealed that he completed a cognitive assessment and answered all the questions correctly. He noted that measuring his mental sharpness is "what the American people want," and launched another attack on his predecessor: "Biden refused to take it."
The medical review comes amid growing scrutiny over the age and physical condition of American political leaders, particularly in a nation where the last two presidents have been over 75 years old.
The Republican leader, who won the elections in November 2024 after a campaign marked by tension and polarization, has been both the target and instigator of questions regarding the mental and physical health of his opponents, particularly that of his predecessor, Joe Biden.
Secrecy and medical history
Although the White House released this medical report in a timely manner, Trump has historically been reluctant to share details about his health.
In fact, the report is the first official medical update since the assassination attempt he suffered in July 2024, during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he sustained a gunshot wound to his right ear. At that time, no formal medical records were released, and it was his former physician and current congressman Ronny Jackson who described the injury in a statement.
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt had promised that this year's report would be "comprehensive," and although some general conclusions have been shared, specific details about cholesterol levels, blood pressure, weight, or medication history have not yet been disclosed.
According to U.S. laws, presidents have the right to medical privacy, which means that only the information they choose to share is made public.
Trump himself has a long history of publicly manipulating his image of vitality. During his first term, he released favorable medical assessments—some of which were questioned for their lack of accuracy—and promoted cognitive tests as a way to validate his mental sharpness.
An age that marks history
Trump assumed the presidency last January at the age of 78 years and five months, surpassing Joe Biden as the oldest president to take office. Although he is three years younger than Biden, Trump started his second term several months older than his predecessor when he took office in 2021.
The debate over the age of leaders has not vanished from the American political landscape, and both face scrutiny regarding their ability to govern. Trump, however, has managed to turn his age into a narrative tool, presenting himself as energetic, resilient, and even more lucid than his opponents.
In an anecdote that combines the trivial with the revealing, Trump signed an executive order to reverse the restrictions on water flow in showers, claiming that those regulations impacted his personal routine.
"It's my hair, it has to be perfect!", he said then amid laughter and applause from his supporters, making it clear that despite his age, the Trump show continues.
Frequently Asked Questions about Donald Trump's Health and Return to the White House
How is Donald Trump’s health after his return to the presidency?
Donald Trump has been declared to be in "excellent cognitive and physical health" following his first complete medical examination since returning to the White House. This examination was conducted at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and included physical tests and cognitive assessments, confirming that he is fully fit to carry out his duties as head of state.
What has the transition of power been like between Joe Biden and Donald Trump?
The transition of power between Joe Biden and Donald Trump has been cordial and respectful, in contrast to the tension of previous years. Both leaders met in the Oval Office and committed to a peaceful transition. This act marks a historical difference, as in 2020 Trump did not acknowledge Biden's victory nor attended his inauguration.
What impact has Trump's return had on American politics?
The return of Trump to the White House has generated great expectations and challenges, both domestically and internationally. With a revamped "America First" agenda and a Republican majority in Congress, Trump is set to lead a divided nation and tackle crucial issues such as immigration, the economy, and foreign policy.
What has been the public's reaction to Trump's presence at public events?
Trump's presence at public events has been met with cheers and enthusiasm. During the UFC 314 event, Trump received a warm welcome, which he interprets as a sign that his administration is doing a good job. This reaction is not isolated, as Trump has maintained a close relationship with certain companies and entertainment figures, reinforcing his narrative of success and strong leadership.
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