US President Donald Trump has directed his aides to significantly expand the details of his public schedule in an effort to counter increasing scrutiny over his workload and energy levels as he approaches 80.
In recent months, Trump’s daily schedule released to the media has drawn attention for its vague entries, often listing activities such as meetings, policy discussions and signing sessions without much explanation. Media analyses comparing his current timetable to his first term have suggested that his official appearances have declined, fueling speculation about his stamina and health.
Sources familiar with the decision say the move to expand the schedule was personally ordered by Trump, who was reportedly irritated by claims that his workdays are lighter than before. Although he continues to make frequent public appearances, some lasting several hours, Trump felt that the limited information in the schedule created a misleading impression.
To address this, aides have begun including private engagements that were previously left out of the public calendar. These now include closed door meetings with Cabinet members, phone calls with foreign leaders, discussions with business executives, interviews and conversations with outside advisers.
Some entries, such as Policy Time or Signing Time in the Oval Office, still offer limited detail. However, officials say these periods often involve reviewing and signing official documents, a task Trump prefers to carry out personally rather than delegate.
The president reportedly wanted it to be clear that even when he is not visible to the public or media, he remains actively engaged throughout the day. In response to questions about the change, the White House released a sample week of Trump’s internal schedule, showing days filled with meetings and calls starting in the morning and continuing well into the evening.
The schedule showed dozens of engagements involving lawmakers, administration officials, media figures, business leaders and family members. While some days began later than others, most extended past 7 p.m.
This is not the first time Trump has taken steps to shape public perception of his work ethic. Toward the end of his first term, daily guidance to the press included a line he personally dictated emphasizing that he worked from early morning until late at nigh
