In a striking critique of President Donald Trump’s behavior, Dr. David Reiss, a prominent psychiatrist, poses a provocative question: If someone displayed Trump’s mannerisms at a family dinner, how long would it take before guests felt the need to call for help?

Dr. Reiss, who is known for his contributions to the book “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump,” argues that the media has been complacent in “sanewashing” Trump’s actions—downplaying or rationalizing behaviors that many might find concerning.

“This might be a little different from what I’ve said before,” Reiss stated during an interview, emphasizing that the specific diagnosis of Trump matters less than the obvious concerning behaviors he exhibits. “What’s relevant is whether this is a functional human being who should have the responsibilities he has,” he added.

The idea of “sanewashing” encapsulates how journalists might portray Trump’s erratic behavior as merely a quirk of personality rather than something indicative of deeper psychological issues.

Reiss points to Trump’s verbal stylings and public statements, hinting at a level of disorganization that raises troubling questions. He highlights Trump’s fixation on naming public landmarks after himself and engaging in inexplicable political feuds, such as with Canada and Denmark.

“The press is treating it as if this is just him,” Reiss noted. “No, this is a very disturbed—vernacularly, deranged—person.” He argues that these behaviors, unbecoming for a leader, should warrant serious media examination rather than dismissal.

When discussing Trump’s penchant for creating international friction, Reiss underscores the potential implications, stating, “He’ll keep damaging international relationships. Who’s next will depend on what his emotions are that day.”

The conversation also touches on the contrasting treatment of President Trump and President Joe Biden. Following Biden’s own lapse during a recent debate, the media made considerable noise regarding his capacity to continue in office, a sentiment that Reiss finds lacking when applied to Trump.

“With Biden… there were people around him who were containing it,” Reiss explained, contrasting it with Trump’s leadership style, which often involves surrounding himself with individuals he perceives as weaker.

Reiss argues that this style creates a dangerous vacuum, devoid of any checks on behavior that could escalate into something more severe. He points to the pervasive double standards in media coverage, questioning why Trump’s conduct is often cushioned while lapses by others receive more scrutiny.

“I think the general public is more and more onto it,” Dr. Reiss stated when asked about the public’s awareness of the discrepancy. However, he maintains that some media outlets may still sidestep direct criticisms of Trump due to a mix of fear and financial motivations.

He suggests that a collective recognition of these issues is crucial. “Why isn’t everybody getting together and saying: we all have our reasons to give in if we’re alone, but together we don’t have to?”

Dr. Reiss’ insights reflect a deep concern not only for Trump’s leadership but also for the broader implications on American democracy. The psychiatrist articulates a warning: unchecked behaviors, particularly in a leader, have far-reaching consequences, especially as they directly influence national and international policies.

“When he gets frustrated, he ups the ante,” Reiss warned, reminding viewers of the unpredictable nature of Trump’s reactions, which could lead to increasingly rash decisions on the world stage.

The psychiatrist’s remarks resonated amid ongoing deliberations about Trump’s capability as president, particularly as the political landscape evolves in the lead-up to the 2026 elections.

As concerns about Trump’s mental acuity continue to weave through political discourse, Reiss’ comments serve as a call to action for media and the public alike to critically evaluate leadership behavior, rather than glossing over signs of dysfunction.

The weight of a leader’s stability is more than an abstract concern; it is pivotal to the nation’s trajectory. Recognizing and addressing these signs early could perhaps steer the course away from disaster.

In an age where public opinion shapes political reality, the urgency for open discussion about leadership fitness is paramount. The need to bridge the gap between personal perceptions and public accountability may be the key to unlocking a more informed citizenry.

As America navigates the complexities of leadership in tumultuous times, the reflections of professionals like Dr. Reiss will be crucial in guiding the public’s understanding of what qualities are truly essential for effective governance.