Camilla Jessen
Doctor raises alarm over Trump’s “manic” speech delivery.
Donald Trump’s televised address on Wednesday prompted a wave of reaction.
While supporters and critics debated the substance, a medical expert said the president’s manner raised serious concerns about his health.
The White House has not commented on the remarks.
Unusual delivery
Trump’s roughly 20-minute speech focused on the economy and immigration and included repeated criticism of previous administrations.
Viewers noted that the president appeared to shout and rush through his speech.
Social media users questioned whether something was wrong.
One of those expressing concern was Dr Jonathan Reiner, a cardiologist and professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University.
“I’m seriously concerned about the health of the president,” Reiner wrote on X after the address.
“Very disturbing”
Reiner expanded on his comments during an interview with CNN’s The Lead on Thursday. He said his concern was not about the speech’s content, but its delivery.
“Well, it wasn’t the content. I thought the content was just standard fare that we’ve become accustomed to,” Reiner said. “But it was the way it was delivered. It was delivered with a manic cadence, almost a frantic cadence.”
He added: “It was as if you felt like you were listening to a podcast on 2x… that kind of manic delivery was very, very disturbing. Very pressurized speech.”
According to Reiner, Trump’s pace appeared to accelerate as the speech continued, something he said he had not seen before.
“He seemed almost frantic,” Reiner said. “And it was disturbing to watch… he’s the commander-in-chief of the greatest armed forces this world has ever seen.”
Questions over health
Reiner also referenced previous public appearances in which Trump appeared to fall asleep during meetings.
Speaking to CNN, he said: “He’s fallen asleep in a crowded Oval Office… and that’s what’s called increased daytime somnolence.”
He noted that conditions such as sleep apnea can cause such symptoms and are often treated with CPAP devices, adding: “We’ve never been told the president has sleep apnea.”
Reiner said the White House should be “more forthcoming” about Trump’s health, especially following recent questions about bruising on his hands and swelling in his ankles.
The administration has previously dismissed health concerns, but has not responded to Reiner’s latest comments.
Trump himself has not addressed the criticism.
Sources: CNN; X
