CNN's Jake Tapper defends Trump for potentially sleeping at cabinet meeting: 'This is not unusual' for a 79-year-old

CNN anchor Jake Tapper addressed reports suggesting President Donald Trump may have dozed off during a recent Cabinet meeting, while also critiquing both the White House's explanation and Trumps late-night social media activity.

During his final Cabinet gathering of the year, Trump was seen multiple times appearing drowsy or struggling to stay awake, an occurrence that quickly drew widespread online attention and commentary.

On The Lead, Tapper opened the segment with a humorous remark, saying, Wake up, Mr. President, and noting the irony that the same president had previously labeled others as Sleepy Joe.

Later in the broadcast, Tapper offered a tongue-in-cheek defense, suggesting the presidents fatigue could be attributed to extensive social media use the previous night. He referenced the White Houses claim that Trump was listening attentively, while also telling former White House communications director Mike Dubke, This is not abnormal for a 79-year-old to be sleepy.

Tapper remarked, Today at the White House, President Trumps Cabinet meeting showed what appeared to be him having some difficulty staying awake. The White House insists he was fully engaged during the three-hour session. If he was nodding off, it may be understandable given the late-night flurry of social media posts, 158 in total, spanning criticisms and conspiracy theories.

Dubke added that Trumps need for minimal sleep is unusual, noting that his last social media post that night likely came around 2 a.m. This guy is awake all the time, Dubke said. CNN political commentator Xochitl Hinojosa compared this observation to criticisms often made by Joe Bidens staff about his stamina.

Dubke continued, emphasizing that Trumps ability to stay active with little sleep is exceptional and likened it to Elon Musks similar habits. He described the three-hour meeting as a marathon and highlighted that Trump conducts many activities publicly, which is atypical for previous presidents.

Hinojosa remarked that, regardless of political affiliation, nearly 80-year-old leaders naturally face age-related limitations. Tapper concluded by underscoring that signs of age are normal and visible, noting that Trump will be the oldest president upon leaving office.

Author: Chloe Ramirez