The Trump administration has issued a heated statement after President Donald Trump appeared to nod off during a televised Oval Office presentation — an image that quickly went viral.

Officials have slammed the reports as “garbage,” insisting the president was fully alert throughout the event.

The incident sparked widespread ridicule online, with critics highlighting the irony of Trump’s years-long mockery of his predecessor as “Sleepy Joe.” California Governor Gavin Newsom took a jab on X, writing, “DOZY DON IS BACK.”

The Moment That Sparked the Uproar

Now older than Biden was when he took office in 2020, Trump seemed to struggle to keep his eyes open as Dr. Mehmet Oz, the former TV host turned head of Medicare Services, unveiled plans to make weight loss drugs more affordable for Americans.

“People can sleep again, because they can breathe when they go to bed,” Dr. Oz declared beside the Resolute Desk, as the president appeared to do exactly that — his head tilting back and his eyes closed.

The White House Fires Back

The White House quickly denied claims that Trump had fallen asleep, asserting he was actively engaged in the discussion. “The President was not sleeping; in fact, he spoke throughout and took many questions from the press during this announcement which represents a historic reduction in prices for Americans on two drugs that help Americans struggling with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and other conditions,” the statement said.

Officials declined to explain why Trump’s eyes appeared closed for extended moments but emphasized that he remained involved and focused.

If enacted, the policy would lower the monthly cost of oral GLP-1 weight loss medications to $149, while injectable versions would drop to $249 — a significant decrease aimed at improving accessibility for everyday Americans.

The administration’s official statement, shared with CNN, didn’t hold back its criticism of the press: “This announcement by President Trump will save a significant amount of money and countless American lives, and yet the failing, liberal media want to push a garbage narrative instead of covering it.”

Another Dramatic Moment in the Oval Office

The “sleeping” controversy wasn’t the only headline-grabbing moment in the White House that week. During the same event, an unnamed pharmaceutical executive suddenly collapsed, sending aides and officials scrambling.

Photos quickly circulated online showing Dr. Oz and other staff members rushing to help, while Trump appeared to stand apart, observing the chaos. Health Secretary RFK Jr. was also seen exiting the frame as others tended to the fallen executive.

Dr. Oz later confirmed the man had fully recovered after receiving prompt medical attention.