Trump, 79, admits being ‘older than pretty much everybody’ is less desirable
DETROIT, MICHIGAN: President Donald Trump, openly acknowledged that he is often the oldest person in the room during public appearances, reflecting on aging and changes over time.
In a speech aimed at reshaping his affordability message, Trump expressed nostalgia for his younger days and felt the effects of getting older while discussing economic and political issues.
Trump’s remarks on old age
During a speech at the Detroit Economic Club on Tuesday, January 13, Trump openly reflected on his advancing age and how it shapes his perspective, saying, “I’m probably old.”
Trump said he used to be “I used to be up to these lecterns and I’d say I’m younger than pretty much everybody in the room,” but now finds himself as “older than pretty much everybody.” He admitted this was less desirable, "I like it the other way better, actually.”
He was 78 years and 7 months old when sworn in as president, making him the oldest American to take the oath of office. His remarks came in the context of an hour‑long address that was intended to recalibrate his message on affordability for Americans.
Trump has previously been observed with swollen ankles, occasional hand bruises, and at times has mixed up names or dates. His health has also drawn attention when he appeared to doze briefly during public events.
Despite this, he has previously insisted he is in “great shape” for his age. On January 2, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post, "The White House Doctors have just reported that I am in 'PERFECT HEALTH,' and that I 'ACED' (meaning, was correct on 100% of the questions asked!), for the third straight time, my Cognitive Examination."
He further claimed, "no other president, or previous vice president, was willing to take."
The White House Doctors have just reported that I am in “PERFECT HEALTH,” and that I “ACED” (Meaning, was correct on 100% of the questions asked!), for the third straight time, my Cognitive Examination, something which no other President, or previous Vice President, was willing…
— Commentary: Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) January 2, 2026
Trump and growing health concerns
Trump further added, "PS, I strongly believe that anyone running for president, or vice president, should be mandatorily forced to take a strong, meaningful, and proven Cognitive Examination. Our great Country cannot be run by 'STUPID' or INCOMPETENT PEOPLE!"
Trump earlier had addressed growing scrutiny over his health, which was a focus of his recent interview with The Wall Street Journal. He told the newspaper that he regretted undergoing advanced imaging in October, saying it led to more questions about his health.
"In retrospect, it’s too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," Trump told the Journal.
He further said that he “would have been a lot better off if they didn’t, because the fact that I took it said, ‘Oh gee, is something wrong?’ Well, nothing’s wrong.”
Last year in October Trump underwent cardiovascular and abdominal scans, as noted by Navy Capt Sean P Barbarella, the president’s physician, in a memorandum to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
In his report, Barbabella noted that the evaluation, described as part of the president's "ongoing health maintenance plan," included advanced imaging, lab tests, and preventive health assessments.
He stated that "Trump continues to demonstrate excellent overall health" and highlighted that the president "continues to maintain a demanding daily schedule without restriction."
