Story perspectives

Trump Intensifies Attacks on NY Times Over Health Claims

12/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified attacks on The New York Times over its coverage of his health.
The response follows an op-ed by Frank Bruni questioning Trump's fitness, echoing scrutiny faced by President Joe Biden.
Trump says he aced cognitive tests and disputes slowing down, while the White House says his health is excellent, and he pursues a $15 billion defamation suit tied to his 2024 campaign.

History

Historical Context

The 1964 Supreme Court case New York Times Co. v. Sullivan established the "actual malice" standard for defamation suits involving public figures, significantly enhancing press freedom. This ruling arose from a libel suit by Alabama Commissioner L.B. Sullivan over a New York Times advertisement criticizing police actions during civil rights protests. Trump's recent defamation suit against the Times echoes ongoing tensions between political figures and media accountability.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified attacks on The New York Times over its coverage of his health.
The response follows an op-ed by Frank Bruni questioning Trump's fitness, echoing scrutiny faced by President Joe Biden.
Trump says he aced cognitive tests and disputes slowing down, while the White House says his health is excellent, and he pursues a $15 billion defamation suit tied to his 2024 campaign.

1 / 2