Donald Trump spoke about recent high-level meetings related to U.S. military planning during a political rally, where he described his reaction to part of the discussions. The president recounted being presented with several options during the briefing and joked about his response while listening to the proposals.
Donald Trump jokes about ‘falling asleep’ during planning meets
According to PEOPLE, President Donald Trump joked at a political rally in Hebron, Kentucky, on March 11, that he was “falling asleep” during a planning meeting about the war in Iran. Recalling the meeting where military leaders presented possible names for the U.S. mission, he said officials told him, “Sir, you could pick the name you’d like, sir.” Trump added that the discussion involved selecting a title for the planned strike.
Trump told supporters that generals and administration officials presented several options during the meeting. “And they gave me, like, 20 names, and I’m like, falling asleep,” he said. He added that he ultimately chose the name “Epic Fury,” telling the crowd, “I like that name. I like that name.”
During his second term, Trump has denied reports that claim he dozes off during long meetings, despite photos and videos showing him with his eyes closed while others speak. At 79, Trump remains the oldest person elected president in United States history. The White House has also responded to allegations that he appeared tired during official briefings.
After footage from a Dec. 2 Cabinet meeting showed Trump appearing to nod off, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended him. She said, “President Trump was listening attentively and running the entire three-hour marathon Cabinet meeting.” Leavitt added that in the meetings, the president and his team highlight an “exhaustive list of accomplishments they have delivered on behalf of the American people.”
In a Jan. 26 profile with New York magazine, Trump described listening to briefings from advisers. “It’s boring as hell,” he said. “I have to sit back and listen, and I move my hand so that people will know I’m listening. I’m hearing every word, and I can’t wait to get out.”
