Trump Accused of Dozing Off During 9/11 Pentagon Ceremony, Social Media Reacts

Trump seen slumped during 9/11 remembrance at Pentagon. Online users claim he looked 'sleepy' and fell asleep.

September 11, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Arlington, Virginia — President Donald Trump, 80, drew online criticism after appearing to doze off during a 9/11 remembrance event at the Pentagon, with social media users sharing clips and comments suggesting he was tired or even asleep.

The ceremony marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump in Arlington, Virginia, alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance attended the New York City memorial at ground zero, where former presidents were also present. Speeches were allowed at the Pentagon but not at the New York event.

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Online viewers posted numerous comments claiming Trump looked “sleepy” and had his eyes closed for extended periods during Hegseth’s speech. A White House official denied these claims, stating the president was “solemnly listening” and honoring the victims. Some accounts on X criticized the president, while others expressed concern about his energy levels, referencing previous instances of him appearing drowsy.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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