President Trump Attends Supreme Court Hearing

Donald Trump, 79, became the first sitting president to attend oral arguments before the Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The case heard was Trump v. Barbara, concerning the president’s effort to limit birthright citizenship.

Reports of President Closing His Eyes

Observations from the Courtroom

While cameras and video recording are not permitted inside the Supreme Court, multiple reports from within the courtroom indicated the president was observed with his eyes closed at times during the session. Sources described the instances as brief, with the president appearing “alert and focused” overall.

The presidential limousine"The Beast" carrying President Donald Trump departs the Supreme Court after the hearing.

Past Instances of Similar Behavior

This is not the first time the president has been observed closing his eyes during meetings. Reports indicate he has also done so during Cabinet meetings, roundtables, and Oval Office announcements while others are speaking. He has consistently maintained he is simply resting his eyes, not sleeping.

Hearing Details and Justices’ Reactions

Case Focus and Solicitor General’s Argument

President Trump silently departed the court shortly after Solicitor General D. John Sauer concluded his argument for the government, which lasted just over an hour. He then attended a scheduled Easter lunch.

Skepticism from the Bench

Despite the presence of the president, the Supreme Court justices appeared largely unperturbed and expressed significant skepticism regarding the president’s attempt to end birthright citizenship. Chief Justice John Roberts remarked, “It’s a new world. It’s the same Constitution,” in response to a claim about ease of travel to the U.S.

Questions from Trump-Appointed Justices

Even justices appointed by President Trump raised probing questions and identified weaknesses in the government’s argument. Justice Amy Coney Barrett stated she was “puzzled” and warned the application of the executive order could be “messy.” Justice Neil Gorsuch commented the administration seemed to be arguing with “Roman law resources.”

Previous Court Appearances

Prior to his reelection, President Trump spent days in court during his trial in New York City in April and May 2024. During the trial, he was frequently observed with his eyes closed by observers in the courtroom. He was ultimately found guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.