White House unexpectedly releases 'Oval Office logs' documenting Trump's 12-hour days amidst concerns about president's 'fatigue'

The White House has released previously undisclosed Oval Office logs indicating that President Donald Trump has been maintaining an extensive daily schedule, reportedly working up to 12 hours per day. The release appears aimed at countering claims that the 79-year-old president is slowing down with age.

The logs, shared exclusively with The New York Post, cover the period from November 12 to November 25, excluding weekends. They document numerous meetings, phone calls, and evening dinners, offering a detailed look at the presidents activities beyond what is publicly available. The records do not include unsolicited calls or early-morning social media activity but suggest that Trump is working longer hours than the average American, according to the publication.

The release seems to directly respond to a report from The New York Times, which had suggested that Trump was showing signs of fatigue based on his public schedule. The NYT article, published on November 25, noted that the presidents public engagements begin later in the day than during his first term and that he has undertaken fewer domestic trips. One highlighted instance described Trump appearing drowsy during a midday Oval Office event discussing weight-loss drugs.

Following the NYT article, Trump expressed anger toward reporter Katie Rogers, criticizing her appearance and character. At 79, Trump is the second oldest president in U.S. history, after Joe Biden, who did not seek reelection in 2024 amid health concerns. Trump has often contrasted himself with Biden, portraying himself as energetic in comparison.

Despite his efforts to project vigor, Trumps health has faced public scrutiny, particularly after a period in September when he missed official engagements for several days. The White House has not immediately responded to inquiries from The Independent.

The NYP report suggests that in late November, Trump was working roughly 50-hour weeks, focusing on immigration and trade policy reforms and efforts to mediate the Ukraine-Russia conflict. On November 12, the day Congress ended a government shutdown, he reportedly participated in 32 calls and meetings with aides, business leaders, and lawmakers.

Trumps day began at 10:30 a.m. with a staff meeting and included sessions with Vice President JD Vance, multiple lawmakers, and judicial nominees. He later hosted a 7:45 p.m. dinner with Wall Street executives, followed by a late-night bill signing and a 10:40 p.m. meeting with a business executive.

On November 13, the president engaged in 17 calls and meetings over nearly nine hours, including a morning discussion with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and a briefing with a speechwriter. The following day, Trump called four foreign leaders, starting at 8:21 a.m. to address tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, and continued with 18 additional meetings or calls, a media interview, and a 26-minute press interaction aboard Air Force One en route to Mar-a-Lago.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, The truth is President Trump never stops working, and his private schedule, Truth Social posts, and around-the-clock engagement on every issue proves just that. Chief of Staff Susie Wiles added, I have seen nothing like his dedication and work ethic, which seems to accelerate as we move through the term.

The New York Times has defended its reporting, emphasizing that it is based on firsthand accounts. A spokesperson said, Name-calling and personal insults do not alter the facts. Our journalists continue to provide independent coverage to help the public understand the administration and its leaders.

Author: Sophia Brooks