Donald Trump’s address to the nation on Wednesday left many viewers unsettled—not because of what he said, but how he said it. While reactions initially focused on the claims in his speech, a prominent medical expert raised concerns about Trump’s delivery and overall health.
Trump, who typically speaks in a measured tone, appeared unusually intense, speaking rapidly and forcefully during the roughly 20-minute address on the economy and immigration. Social media users quickly questioned whether something seemed off, prompting cardiologist and George Washington University professor Dr. Jonathan Reiner to weigh in
Writing on X, Reiner said he was “seriously concerned about the health of the president.” He later expanded on those remarks during an appearance on CNN, describing Trump’s speaking style as having a “manic” and “very disturbing” cadence.
Reiner emphasized that his concern was not about the content of the speech, but its delivery. He said Trump’s pace felt frantic and pressurized, comparing it to listening to audio sped up to double speed. According to Reiner, the rapid cadence intensified as the speech continued, making it uncomfortable to watch given Trump’s role as commander-in-chief.
The doctor also pointed to earlier moments that raised red flags, including reports of Trump appearing to fall asleep during meetings. Reiner noted that excessive daytime sleepiness can be linked to conditions such as sleep apnea, which is typically treated with a CPAP machine—something the White House has never confirmed Trump uses.
Reiner said the administration should be more transparent about the president’s health, calling the contrast between Trump appearing drowsy at times and intensely energized during the speech “jarring.”