US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized inquiries regarding Donald Trump’s mental fitness as “absurd and ridiculous” during a recent congressional hearing. This statement comes amid escalating public skepticism concerning the health of the oldest president in US history.

In his testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rubio defended Trump against allegations that the president frequently falls asleep during cabinet meetings. The committee presented Rubio with video evidence showing Trump, at 79 years old, appearing to have his eyes closed while Rubio spoke beside him.

Responding to the footage, Rubio stated, “I don’t even know how to respond to that, other than to tell you that it’s absurd and ridiculous.” He emphasized that while opinions on Trump’s policies may vary, the notion that he is cognitively impaired is unfounded. “I assure you, this is not a president that sleeps or is cognitively impaired in any way, shape, or form,” he added. He further noted that Trump is incredibly active and often works more diligently than many younger individuals around him.

Rubio continued to assert that Trump operates on demanding hours with little sleep, claiming, “I talk to him at all hours of the day and night. He works inhumane hours.” This defense coincides with Trump’s upcoming milestone birthday on June 14, when he will turn 80.

Despite Trump avoiding the level of scrutiny concerning age and fitness that Joe Biden faced toward the conclusion of his term, questions about his health remain. A recent poll conducted by the Washington Post, ABC News, and Ipsos revealed that 59 percent of participants believe Trump lacks the mental capacity necessary for leadership, while 55 percent expressed doubts about his physical fitness.

In the months leading up to this hearing, Trump has maintained a less demanding public schedule compared to the early days of his second term. Rubio’s robust defense of Trump’s health occurred on the same day that Trump suggested Rubio as a potential vice presidential candidate for the 2028 elections, alongside current Vice President JD Vance. In an appearance on the Pod Force One podcast, Trump remarked that a ticket featuring Vance and Rubio would be “hard to beat,” though he refrained from indicating a preference for either as the Republican presidential nominee.