Nearly half of Americans now believe Donald Trump is too old to serve as president. A YouGov poll shows 49 percent of respondents share this view, a 15-point increase since February 2025. Newsweek reached out to the White House for comment on the findings, but no immediate response was provided.
At 78 years old, Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, becoming the oldest man elected to the presidency. His age has become a focal point, especially after photos of his bruised hand circulated online. The White House later disclosed that the condition is common among older adults.
Public opinion on Donald Trump has shifted steadily over time. In February 2024, 34 percent of Americans considered him too old to serve. That number rose to 43 percent in August 2024 and 45 percent in November 2024, around the presidential election. After he took office in January 2025, the share dropped slightly to 43 percent, then 42 percent in April. By September, it had risen to 49 percent.
The poll also asked Americans about Trump’s health and performance. Sixty-three percent believe his age and health affect his ability to govern effectively. Forty-nine percent said they worry he may be experiencing cognitive decline, and 51 percent feel he isn’t transparent enough about his health.
Among Americans with high incomes, Trump’s net approval was at -16 percentage points, down from recorded in July. Rural voters’ support has also dropped, reflecting a broader trend of declining approval.
In response to health concerns, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump remains in “excellent health.” She explained that the bruising on his hand was due to frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, while the swelling in his legs was attributed to chronic venous insufficiency.
Despite these reassurances, public skepticism persists. A significant portion of Americans express doubt about the information provided by the White House regarding Trump’s health. This skepticism is evident in the polling data, suggesting concerns over Trump’s age and health could influence public opinion and political dynamics in the upcoming election.
Trump was recently seen attending the men’s singles final at the US Open between Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz and Italy’s Jannik Sinner at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Photos of the president at public events have fueled discussion about his fitness and stamina in office.
Experts note that concerns about presidential age are not unusual. History shows voters often factor health and vitality into their perception of leadership ability. Trump’s age and publicized health issues have intensified debate over whether he can manage the demands of the presidency.
Public discussion about Trump’s health and age is likely to continue. With polls indicating growing concern, questions about transparency, cognitive decline, and physical condition may become central topics in political discourse. Analysts note that voter perceptions of fitness and vitality can strongly influence public opinion and electoral outcomes.
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Trump’s situation demonstrates how age and health are increasingly under scrutiny in modern American politics. While the president’s physician describes his medical condition as non-threatening, public concern remains high. The survey shows that nearly half of Americans are actively weighing his age and health when judging his leadership.
This poll reflects ongoing debates about presidential fitness, transparency, and public trust. Americans appear divided, but the trend shows growing concern over Trump’s age and ability to perform his duties. Observers say scrutiny of his health and public appearances may increase in the coming months, according to Newsweek.
