President Donald Trump appeared to doze off during the 9/11 memorial ceremony on the 25th anniversary of the attacks, nodding off repeatedly while seated onstage. Others present, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Melania Trump and Condoleezza Rice, remained awake and attentive. Observers said the moment was particularly sensitive given victims' families were in attendance, and critics quickly called the episode inappropriate.
Trump Appears to Doze Off During 9/11 Memorial on 25th Anniversary
Donald Trump asleep at the 9/11 ceremony while seated next to Melania Trump, who is fully awake
President Donald Trump appeared to doze off during the 9/11 memorial ceremony on Friday, drawing criticism from observers who said the moment was inappropriate given the context of the event.
Video from the ceremony shows the president nodding off repeatedly, slumping forward in his chair with his eyes closed and his head hanging down while others onstage — including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, First Lady Melania Trump and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice — remained alert.
Donald Trump asleep on stage at the September 11 ceremony
What Happened
Witnesses and viewers noted that Mr. Trump seemed to lose consciousness at several points during the service. The incident occurred on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, with victims' families and survivors in attendance. For many, the timing made the episode especially sensitive.
Context and Reaction
Observers pointed out that this is not the first time the president has been seen appearing to fall asleep on camera in public settings. Reactions after the ceremony were swift on social media and among critics, who called the behavior inappropriate for a solemn memorial. Supporters and allies offered fewer public responses in the immediate aftermath.
Note: The accounts above reflect what was visible on video and reported by observers at the event.
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