By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Governor Gavin Newsom has suggested that President Trump’s late-night social media activity and reported instances of stumbling over words at nighttime rallies are indicative of early symptoms of dementia, specifically the phenomenon known as “sundowning.” This theory, promoted by Newsom, posits that the former president, who is approaching 80, exhibits confusion during hours of darkness. Newsom, considered a potential presidential contender in 2028, has been publicly questioning Trump’s mental acuity for some time.
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The notion of Donald Trump experiencing “sundowning” has been brought to the forefront by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has used this term to suggest concerns about the former president’s cognitive health. This framing attempts to interpret certain behaviors and public appearances as indicative of a decline often associated with dementia, a condition marked by confusion and agitation that typically intensifies as the day progresses.
Newsom’s comments, in essence, leverage the concept of sundowning to paint a picture of a politician whose public actions might be influenced by cognitive impairment. It’s a tactic that aims to raise doubts about Trump’s mental fitness for leadership, suggesting that his public pronouncements and actions could be driven by something more complex than just his usual rhetoric. The implication is that what we’re witnessing is not just standard political maneuvering, but a manifestation of a deeper, age-related cognitive issue.
This isn’t the first time concerns about Trump’s mental acuity have been raised. Throughout his presidency and even before, his speaking patterns, his frequent use of hyperbole, and his often rambling public statements have been subjects of discussion and debate. However, Newsom’s specific use of the term “sundowning” attempts to give a more clinical edge to these observations, implying a specific pattern of decline that might be observable in his public engagements.
The idea that Trump might be “sundowning” suggests a potential for erratic behavior, particularly in the late afternoon or evening. This could manifest in his communication style, his decision-making processes, or his overall demeanor during public appearances. It’s a way of framing his perceived inconsistencies or moments of agitation as symptomatic of a neurological condition rather than intentional political strategy or a reflection of his established personality.
Furthermore, linking “sundowning” to dementia raises broader questions about accountability and leadership. If a public figure is experiencing such cognitive challenges, it naturally leads to inquiries about who is truly in charge and whether they are capable of fulfilling the demands of high office. The suggestion is that if Trump is “sundowning,” then his judgment and capacity to govern might be compromised, leading to a situation where others are effectively making decisions for him.
The commentary surrounding these suggestions often oscillates between outright accusations and cautious speculation. Some observers are quick to declare Trump as definitively suffering from dementia, pointing to his public statements and perceived physical decline as irrefutable proof. Others remain more hesitant, emphasizing the need for professional medical diagnosis and cautioning against armchair psychology, even while acknowledging that certain behaviors might be concerning.
Trump himself has consistently pushed back against any suggestions of cognitive decline. He has often boasted about passing cognitive tests, framing them as definitive proof of his mental sharpness and fitness for office. He has also actively contrasted his own perceived vigor with that of his political opponents, particularly President Biden, suggesting a conspiracy to highlight his supposed frailties.
The “sundowning” narrative, however, seeks to reframe these denials. It suggests that even when Trump appears confident or sharp, the underlying issue might be present and manifesting in subtle or intermittent ways. The term itself implies a waxing and waning of cognitive function, meaning that even a seemingly coherent statement or action could be occurring within a broader context of decline.
This discussion also touches upon the broader political landscape and how such concerns are weaponized. Newsom’s comments are not occurring in a vacuum; they are part of an ongoing political struggle where perceived weaknesses of opponents are frequently highlighted. The term “sundowning” becomes a potent tool in this arsenal, capable of evoking images of vulnerability and unreliability in the minds of voters.
Ultimately, the debate over whether Donald Trump is “sundowning” or experiencing dementia is a complex one, fueled by observation, speculation, and political strategy. It raises significant questions about age, cognitive health, and the demands of public leadership, and it’s likely to remain a point of contention in political discourse for the foreseeable future. The conversation around this topic underscores the intense scrutiny that public figures, particularly those in positions of power, are subjected to regarding their health and mental fitness.