Donald Trump, 79, displayed visible difficulty descending the stairs of Air Force One on January 5, 2026, following his return to Washington D.C. from a 15-day stay at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach County.
Trump gripped the handrail while descending the aircraft stairs at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, moving slowly down the steps with his eyes fixed downward. Trump paused halfway down the stairs before continuing his cautious descent on Monday evening.
After reaching the tarmac, Trump walked toward Marine One in what appeared as a veering arc. Trump appeared to drag his right leg during the walk across the airfield.
The incident follows Trump’s recent admission about health concerns that have prompted medical evaluations. In mid-July 2025, Trump visited Walter Reed Military Medical Center after experiencing mild swelling in his lower legs.
Medical staff performed an ultrasound at the facility, which led to a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency. This condition, common among older adults, makes it more difficult for blood to travel from the legs to the heart through smaller veins. The condition can contribute to leg swelling, discomfort, and mobility challenges.
Trump has been forthcoming about his concerns regarding stair navigation. In September 2025, while speaking to military personnel at Quantico, Trump explained his cautious approach.
“I walk very slowly. Nobody has to set a record. Just try not to fall because it doesn’t work out well,” Trump said.
Trump referenced his predecessor, Joe Biden, 82, who experienced several publicized stumbles during his time in office. “Every day, the guy’s falling down stairs,” Trump told military generals, explaining his motivation for taking extra precautions.
Trump’s medical history includes additional evaluations beyond the July visit. Trump underwent an MRI scan in October 2025, though specific details about the reason for the scan were not disclosed at the time.
Dr. Jonathan Reiner, a cardiologist, suggested the MRI may indicate neurological symptoms. MRI scans are typically ordered when patients present with specific symptoms requiring further investigation, ranging from neurological concerns to cardiac issues or back pain.
Navy Capt. Sean Barbabella addressed Trump’s health evaluations, stating that the medical team performed a CT scan at Walter Reed. The medical team said the CT scan was normal, showing no abnormalities.
Trump’s stair difficulties were also evident in late October 2025. On October 29, 2025, Trump arrived in Busan, South Korea, for APEC meetings as part of a diplomatic tour that included visits to Malaysia and Japan. Video footage captured Trump gripping the railing of Air Force One with particular care as he descended the stairs.
Before Christmas, another incident drew attention when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Mar-a-Lago. Trump climbed stairs to greet Netanyahu at the estate’s main entrance, demonstrating continued challenges with stair navigation.
Video from that visit showed Trump slapping his right leg three times with his right hand before beginning his descent down stairs. This unusual gesture occurred just moments before he carefully made his way down the steps.
Trump appeared to slur words at a press conference regarding Venezuela strike operations. During the same briefing, Trump’s eyes appeared to close while General Dan Caine was speaking.
Chronic venous insufficiency affects many Americans, particularly those over 60. The condition develops when leg veins do not allow blood to flow back up to the heart efficiently. Damaged valves or weakened vein walls can cause blood to pool in the legs, leading to swelling, aching, and skin changes.
Treatment for the condition typically involves lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise and leg elevation. More severe cases may require medical procedures to repair or remove damaged veins.
The condition can impact mobility and balance, particularly when navigating stairs or uneven surfaces. Patients often report feeling heaviness in their legs, especially after prolonged periods of standing or at the end of the day.
Trump’s careful navigation of stairs represents a marked contrast to his previous public demeanor. Presidential mobility has long been a subject of public interest, with images of leaders navigating aircraft stairs becoming symbolic moments captured by media worldwide.
Trump arrived at Mar-a-Lago on December 20 for what became a 15-day stay at his Palm Beach County residence. The estate has served as a frequent retreat and meeting location throughout Trump’s time in office.
Trump’s return to the nation’s capital marks the resumption of regular operations following the extended holiday period. Trump’s visible struggles with mobility continue to generate discussion about health transparency and the physical demands of high office.
