Trump given new nickname after appearing to doze off at Board of Peace meeting

WorldPolitics
20 Feb 2026 • 4:54 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • California Governor Gavin Newsom's press office labelled President Donald Trump "Dozy Don" after he appeared to close his eyes during an event.
  • The incident occurred at the first meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington, D.C., where Trump announced pledges for a Gaza reconstruction fund.
  • Social media users, including former Republican congressman Adam Kinzinger and The Lincoln Project, also commented on Trump's appearance, suggesting he was tired or asleep.
  • White House spokesperson Anna Kelly defended Trump, stating he is the "sharpest, most accessible, and energetic president in American history" and criticised The Independent.
  • Newsom, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential nominee, has previously used social media to criticise Trump, often mimicking his all-caps posting style.

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