Trump Revives Presidential Fitness Test, Comments on Thune

President Donald Trump on Tuesday signed a proclamation reviving the Presidential Physical Fitness Test, reintroducing a competitive fitness program for U.S. schools that had been discontinued. During the signing, Trump engaged with young attendees about their sports interests.

One boy mentioned plans to take up powerlifting, prompting Trump to ask if he would compete against women, to which the boy said no. Trump then recounted a story of a transgender powerlifter who broke a women's record that had stood for 18 years by 119 pounds.

Trump also addressed political matters during the event. He expressed disappointment in Senate Majority Leader John Thune for not eliminating the 60-vote filibuster threshold. Trump stated that Republicans should terminate the filibuster to pass legislation, warning that Democrats would do so if given the chance.

“I’m disappointed. I like John a lot, but there’s a couple of Republicans that are foolish people.”

The president specifically urged action on the SAVE America Act, which requires voter ID for casting ballots and proof of citizenship for registration. Trump emphasized limiting mail-in voting to military personnel and those who need it, citing concerns about cheating in broader mail-in systems.

The event followed Trump's recent calls for Senate Republicans to advance the SAVE Act without the filibuster. Trump's remarks extended to other issues, including references to bombing Iran, rigged elections, and the killing of protesters, according to The Independent. These topics arose before shifting focus to the students' sports activities.

On the same day, Indiana held primary elections that served as a measure of Trump's political sway. Voters decided between state senate incumbents Trump opposed and challengers he endorsed. NPR reported that the races pitted Trump's preferred candidates against established lawmakers.

The Presidential Physical Fitness Award, now restored, aims to promote physical activity among students through annual tests. ABC News noted that the program encourages competitive fitness in schools. Trump joked about his own exercise routine during the event, saying he works out 'about one minute a day max,' according to the Washington Examiner.

The proclamation signing was streamed live, as covered by Just the News. Multiple sources confirmed the event's focus on youth fitness amid Trump's broader commentary.