living former U.S. president traveled to New York to honor the victims of 9/11.

Every living former U.S. president traveled to New York to honor the victims of 9/11.

And then there was Donald Trump.

As former presidents gathered to commemorate the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives 25 years ago, Trump remained in Washington for the Pentagon observance.

Footage of him appearing to have his eyes closed quickly sparked accusations that he was struggling to stay awake.

His defenders can debate what those few seconds actually show. And to be fair, a short clip cannot prove whether someone was sleeping or simply had their eyes closed.

But the optics are undeniably damaging.

For years, Trump repeatedly mocked Joe Biden as “Sleepy Joe,” questioned his stamina, and argued that appearing tired was evidence that Biden lacked the fitness to serve as president.

When you make that argument about your political opponent, it’s difficult to object when the same standard is applied to you.

And this wasn’t an ordinary political event. It was the 25th anniversary of September 11.

Americans were gathering to remember parents, spouses, children, friends, firefighters, police officers, and thousands of others whose lives were taken that morning.

A moment of remembrance that carries that much weight demands solemnity and respect.

People will watch the footage and reach their own conclusions. Whether Trump was actually asleep or not, the image has already become part of the conversation.

Sometimes, the optics speak louder than any political attack ever could.