A recent analysis by The New York Times has sparked debate about Donald Trump’s mental fitness, focusing on significant changes in his speech patterns and cognitive abilities. The report highlights a dramatic shift in Trump’s speaking style since his 2016 presidential campaign. His speeches have become longer, averaging 82 minutes, almost double the length of his rallies in 2016. Additionally, the report points to a noticeable increase in negativity, with Trump using 32% more negative words than positive ones compared to 21% in 2016.
Furthermore, the analysis reveals a 13% increase in the use of absolute terms like “always” and “never,” which some experts interpret as a potential sign of advancing age. The report also highlights a 69% increase in the use of swear words compared to his first run for office. These changes, according to The New York Times, could indicate disinhibition, a possible sign of cognitive change.
At 78, Trump is the oldest major-party nominee for president in history. If he wins and serves a second term, he would be the oldest president ever at 82 by the time he leaves office. While Trump insists he has passed cognitive tests and dismisses any concerns about his mental fitness, several individuals who have known him for years have noticed a change.
Former Trump ally Anthony Scaramucci, who will be a headline speaker at Benzinga’s upcoming Future of Digital Assets event on Nov. 19, stated, “He’s not competing at the level he was competing at eight years ago, no question about it. He’s lost a step. He’s lost an ability to put powerful sentences together.”
Trump’s campaign communications director, Steven Cheung, refuted these suggestions, describing the former president as “the strongest and most capable candidate.”
The implications of these changes in Trump’s speech patterns on his political career remain to be seen. The increased negativity and use of absolute terms in his speeches could negatively impact his public image and voter perception. Additionally, the observations made by those who have known him for years could potentially influence public opinion. However, the dismissal of these concerns by Trump’s campaign communications director suggests that the campaign does not view these changes as a significant issue. The potential impact of these observed changes on Trump’s ability to effectively lead the country, if elected, remains a subject of intense debate.
