The words landed like a punch: “Ugly, both inside and out.” These weren’t directed at a political opponent, but at a journalist – Katie Rogers of the New York Times – in a furious outburst from former President Donald Trump.
The catalyst? An article co-authored by Rogers examining the potential impact of his age – 79 years – on his demanding campaign schedule and ability to travel. Trump responded with a lengthy post on his social media platform, unleashing a torrent of criticism.
He dismissed Rogers as a “third rate reporter” solely focused on negative portrayals, simultaneously denouncing the New York Times as a “failing” newspaper and revisiting his claims about the previous election’s outcome. The attack felt intensely personal, a direct assault on the messenger.
Trump attempted to preempt concerns about waning energy, asserting that a recent “PERFECT PHYSICAL EXAM AND A COMPREHENSIVE COGNITIVE TEST (“That was aced”)” proved his continued vigor. This declaration arrived amidst evidence suggesting a shift in his travel patterns.
The Times’ reporting revealed a significant decrease – 39% – in Trump’s travel schedule compared to his first year in office. His current trips lean heavily towards international engagements, a marked contrast to the domestic focus of his earlier presidency.
This scrutiny comes as Trump holds the distinction of being the oldest person ever elected to the U.S. Presidency. His successor, current President Joe Biden, was a year younger at the time of his own election.
The outburst wasn’t isolated. Just over a week prior, Trump publicly rebuked a Bloomberg News reporter, silencing her with the dismissive phrase “quiet, piggy” after she inquired about the Jeffrey Epstein files. A pattern of aggressive responses to challenging questions was emerging.
Despite the reduced travel, Trump maintains a busy schedule, exemplified by a recent scene at the White House: handing out Halloween candy mere hours after returning from a week-long diplomatic mission to Japan and South Korea. However, his public appearances are increasingly concentrated between noon and 5 p.m.
