August M
Fresh analysis by the New York Times shows President Donald Trump has reduced his public appearances by nearly 40 percent compared with his first term, fuelling ongoing speculation about his health and daily routine.
A fresh review of President Donald Trump’s publicly documented schedule suggests his second-term workday has shifted noticeably, with fewer official appearances and later start times compared with his first four years in office.
Trump, now 78, returned to the White House in 2024 as the oldest person ever elected to the presidency.
Public events drop compared with first term
The New York Times, drawing on records compiled by the database Roll Call, reported a significant decline in Trump’s public activity. Between January 20 and November 25 in 2017, he logged 1,688 official events.
Over the same period this year, that number stood at 1,029 — a reduction of 39 percent, according to the Times and The Express.
The analysis also noted a shift in the timing of the President’s workday. During his first term, Trump typically began official duties at around 10:31 a.m.. In his second term, the average start time has moved to 12:08 p.m., although his end-of-day routine remains close to 5 p.m. in both years.
Recent medical evaluation
The White House faced renewed questions last month after confirming that Trump underwent an MRI at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
In a statement, presidential physician Dr. Sean Barbabella described the appointment as a “scheduled follow-up evaluation” that included imaging, lab tests and routine assessments. He said the President “continues to demonstrate excellent overall health.”
Trump acknowledged having the MRI but did not specify which part of the body was scanned, telling reporters that he was pleased with the results.
Ongoing questions about Trump’s health
Trump has repeatedly said he is in strong physical and cognitive condition since returning to office, but scrutiny has persisted. According to The Express, observers have pointed to a dark mark visible on his hand in several public photographs, sometimes appearing to be covered with makeup. Commentators have questioned whether the mark could reflect bruising or a medical issue, though no official explanation has been offered.
Sources: The Express, The New York Times, Roll Call
