Donald Trump started the week flying to Turkey for the NATO summit and ended it in hospital, marking a series of wild moments and unanswered questions that could define his second presidency.
Secret Air Force One Switch Raises Security Questions
Trump quietly switched planes during a stopover in rural England on the way home from the conference, sending the FBI to the homes of journalists who reported the story. He arrived in Ankara aboard his new Qatar-gifted luxury jet but departed on the older duck-egg blue Air Force One. Trump claimed on Truth Social that he sent the new jet to RAF Mildenhall for refueling and to give US troops a tour, while he flew the old plane "for old time's sake." However, The New York Times reported that the Secret Service recommended the switch due to concerns that the new jet, rushed into service, lacked full countermeasures. Trump denied security issues, but FBI agents reportedly visited Times reporters' homes after a leak inquiry.
Trump Accused of Hypocrisy Over Lightning Risk
Trump criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for requesting a match time change due to lightning risk, calling it a danger to lives. However, Trump himself overruled a cancellation of his July Fourth speech during nearby thunderstorms, with fork lightning visible in the sky. No injuries were reported.
NATO Rants and Gaffe
At the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump delivered a lengthy, rambling monologue, announcing US attacks on Iran, calling Iran's leaders "scum," and ranting about Spain and Greenland. He mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "President Putin" during a press conference, a gaffe similar to one made by Joe Biden two years prior. Trump attempted to recover by asking a Ukrainian reporter for a question for Putin.
Election Commission Gutted
Trump used Supreme Court-granted powers to dismantle the Election Assistance Commission, firing two Democratic members and accepting a Republican resignation. The commission oversees voter registration and voting machine certification. The White House stated Trump reserves the right to remove individuals not aligned with securing elections.
Filibuster Standoff Over Voting Bill
Trump continues to push the SAVE America Act, requiring strict photo ID for voter registration and clamping down on postal voting. The bill lacks 60 Senate votes to overcome a filibuster. Trump refused to sign a bipartisan housing bill in protest, threatening consequences for Republicans who don't support his voting legislation.
Health Concerns After Hospital Visit
Trump admitted to another physical at Walter Reed Military Hospital, just 47 days after his previous checkup. The frequency is unusual; most presidents have annual exams. This marks his fourth visit amid speculation about his mental and physical health following gaffes at NATO and difficulty climbing stairs. Trump claimed he takes "six-month physicals," though his last visit was 46 days prior.
