US President Donald Trump is once again at the centre of a heated public debate concerning his mental acuity. This follows a recent televised address where he made a significant mathematical error, claiming his administration was working to slash prescription drug costs by "up to 600%". The statement, which quickly spread across social media and news platforms, has provided fresh ammunition to critics who have long raised questions about the President's cognitive sharpness.
The Viral '600%' Claim and Immediate Backlash
During a speech delivered at the White House on December 18, 2025, President Trump touted his efforts to negotiate lower prices for pharmaceuticals. In his remarks, he asserted, "We are making deals that will cut drug prices for Americans by up to 600 percent." The claim is mathematically impossible, as a reduction cannot exceed 100%, which would mean the item becomes free. This gaffe was swiftly highlighted by media outlets, economists, and political opponents, turning into a viral moment.
Critics were quick to pounce on the error, framing it not as a simple slip of the tongue but as part of a worrying pattern. They point to a series of recent incidents, including other verbal stumbles, instances where he has mixed up facts, and moments of apparent confusion caught on camera. For these observers, the "600%" comment is a clear indicator of declining cognitive faculties, raising serious concerns about his fitness for office.
Defenders Dismiss Criticism as Political Warfare
In response, President Trump's supporters and allies have dismissed the intense backlash as political exaggeration and a deliberate attempt by opponents to undermine him. They argue that everyone makes occasional speaking errors and that focusing on such slips is a cheap tactic to distract from his policy achievements.
Adding fuel to the fire, President Trump has frequently boasted about excelling in cognitive tests. He often references these tests in public appearances to demonstrate his mental prowess. However, he has consistently refused to release the detailed results or specifics of these assessments to the public. This lack of transparency has only intensified the online debate, with many calling for full disclosure to settle the matter.
A Debate That Shows No Signs of Slowing
The incident has effectively reignited the simmering "cognitive decline" debate in American politics. What began as a viral moment over a mathematical error has ballooned into a broader discussion about age, health, and transparency for those in the highest offices. The online discourse remains fiercely divided, mirroring the deep political polarization in the country.
As the controversy continues, all eyes are on the White House for any clarification or response. The episode underscores how even a brief verbal misstep can have significant political ramifications, influencing public perception and media narratives for days. Whether this becomes a fleeting news cycle or a persistent issue may depend on future public appearances and the President's own response to the growing scrutiny.
