President Donald Trump hosted the first Christmas party of his second term at the White House, making comments that sparked interest regarding his tenure, as he mentioned he would remain in office for a “long period of time.” The 79-year-old president addressed those gathered at the event, which featured holiday decorations arranged by First Lady Melania Trump.
On December 1, 2025, Trump spoke to the party’s attendees, referring to the “honor” of serving as president. “We’re going to do a great job, and you know, we have a little more than three years left,” he stated to the guests. He further added that “three years with Trump is an eternity, that’s a long period of time,” prompting applause from the audience, and reiterating, “A long time.”
Trump’s communications adviser, Margo Martin, posted video clips of the event on X on Monday. The footage showed the president discussing his remaining time in office, which extends until January 2029, when his second term ends. At that time, Trump will be 82 years old, having been 70 when he first entered the White House in 2017.
As the oldest person inaugurated as U.S. president, Trump’s age and health have been topics of scrutiny during his second term. Questions have been raised about his physical and mental condition, especially following instances where he exhibited what some describe as rambling speech and mental lapses.
In October, Trump underwent an MRI scan that drew public attention after the White House initially withheld its purpose. The administration later issued a memo indicating that advanced imaging was conducted to assess cardiovascular and abdominal health, which is common among men in his age group. Results showed excellent cardiovascular health, as stated by the White House.
Trump has also been noted for a recurring bruise on his right hand, attributed by the White House to frequent handshaking and aspirin use. Health monitoring for the president follows standard protocols for his age group.
Reports on Trump’s public schedule indicate a 39 percent reduction in official appearances during the first 10 months of his second term compared to his first presidency. Additionally, he has started his workdays later than previously recorded.
The Christmas party also recognized National Guard members involved in a recent incident near the White House. On November 26, two National Guard members were shot near the presidential residence. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from her injuries. Andrew Wolfe, 24, who was initially hospitalized in critical condition, has shown remarkable signs of recovery in recent weeks, including sitting up, moving on command, and responding to medical staff, according to updates from West Virginia officials and Trump.
During his remarks, the president honored those serving near the executive mansion, offered condolences to Beckstrom’s family, and noted Wolfe’s ongoing recovery.
The White House Christmas celebration combined holiday festivities with political messaging, as Trump discussed both his remaining time in office and recent events affecting those serving near the mansion. The decorations by the first lady provided a festive setting for an event that intertwined seasonal celebration with presidential commentary on his administration’s direction.
As Trump continues his second term, questions about his longevity in office remain, not due to constitutional concerns, as a third term is not possible, but because of public interest in his health and capability to meet the role’s demands. His comments at the Christmas party about serving for a “long time” may have been intended to reassure supporters about his commitment, while also highlighting ongoing discussions about his age and fitness, which have become a routine part of political discourse during his presidency.
