Amid growing concerns about President Donald Trump‘s health, a new profile from New York Magazine dives into the nuances of the 79-year-old’s fitness for office. With his term set to end when he turns 82, the feature raises pressing questions about the longevity and capabilities of the nation’s leader.
The extensive 5,000-word article offers intriguing insights into Trump’s health, particularly as he embarks on this unprecedented phase of his presidency. With every news cycle, his well-being has emerged as a focal point—not only among the electorate but also within the broader political discourse.
In a bid to reassure the public about his health, Trump invited two doctors, Captain Sean Barbabella and Colonel James Jones—both of whom serve at Walter Reed Hospital, a facility historically significant for the care of U.S. presidents—for an on-the-record discussion with Washington Correspondent Ben Terris. The choice of doctors underscores an attempt to lend credibility to his claims of “perfect health.”
However, Trump’s comments during the conversation introduce an element of irony. He admitted to not being close to the doctors, stating, “I don’t know them, they’re not my best friends.” Yet he insists on their professionalism, remarking that “they happen to be taking care of me for anything—but I don’t need any taking care of because I’m in perfect health.” This dissonance raises eyebrows as the American public seeks transparency regarding his health.
Since his return to the White House in January 2025, Trump’s health has sparked concerns, especially after observable signs of decline were noted during public appearances. Observations of him dozing off during live conferences, making verbal gaffes, and exhibiting physical signs such as hand bruising and foot swelling have led to heightened scrutiny around his health.
In a particularly mysterious revelation, Trump disclosed in October 2025 that he had undergone an MRI following public speculation about his well-being. However, he could not specify the purpose of the scan, which fueled further intrigue. Dr. Jones clarified that Trump actually had what he referred to as an “MRI-like” CT scan of his chest and abdomen, ostensibly obscuring the details even further.
Trump has a history of publicly criticizing his predecessor, former President Joe Biden, regarding age and mental fitness. Ironically, he stated to the magazine, “I think the American people should know that the president is healthy so you don’t get a guy like the last one.” This sentiment highlights the competitive narrative surrounding presidential health, especially as younger candidates come to the forefront.
The feature also explores an unexpected moment during the interview involving former President Barack Obama. When Dr. Jones was asked to compare the health of both men, he hesitated but ultimately stated, under apparent pressure from Trump, that “President Trump” was healthier. The exchange, vividly illustrated by Terris’s evocative prose, adds a layer of spectacle to an already scrutinized topic.
Additionally, Trump’s recollection during the interview raised eyebrows, particularly when he struggled to recall his father’s health issues. Aides quickly interjected to clarify, stating, “Alzheimer’s.” Trump, seemingly frustrated, remarked, “Like an Alzheimer’s thing. Well, I don’t have it,” further showcasing the tension around discussions of his own cognitive health.
Nutrition and lifestyle choices featured starkly in the profile. Trump’s diet is characterized by a heavy reliance on meat, minimal vegetables, and a “[ton] of candy.” His lack of consistent exercise, coupled with a habitual sleep deficiency, raised questions about his overall lifestyle. Notably, Robert F. Kennedy, Trump’s Secretary of Health and Human Services, remarked on Trump’s “unhinged” diet, bluntly stating, “I don’t know how he’s alive.” Such commentary adds to the ongoing dialogue about how lifestyle choices impact health, particularly in the context of public figures.