A bizarre moment unfolded in the Oval Office this week, whereby Donald Trump complimented a NASA chief’s ‘beautiful ears’.
The US President welcomed the crew of the recent Artemis II mission at the White House on Wednesday (29 Apr), where they were honoured for their recent 10-day mission around the moon.
“We have some people that captivated the attention of the whole world,” Trump gushed. “It takes people like this to make our country great. We’re very proud of these people; they have unbelievable courage.”
Not long after the Republican frontman congratulated Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen – who made history by surpassing the furthest distance ever travelled by human beings – the conversation drifted somewhat.
Trump turned his attention to the NASA chief (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
The 79-year-old rattled through topics like King Charles III’s recent visit, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, UFOs and the ongoing Iran war at staggering speed, likely baffling his guests.
Suddenly, Trump focused his attention on Jared Isaacman, the current head of NASA, who stood timidly in line with his desk.
The shift came after an attending reporter asked the right-wing leader: “Are you considering relocating NASA’s headquarters out of D.C. once the lease is up? States like Texas, Ohio, and Florida have expressed interest.”
Responding, Trump gestured towards 43-year-old Isaacman: “Well, the best man to tell you that is the man standing right over here.”
Looking towards the scientist, he asked: “You heard that question with those beautiful ears of yours?”
Prompting a smile from Isaacman, Trump added: “He’s got great hearing, you know. He’s, he’s got super hearing.”
Isaacman attempted to laugh off the President’s remarks (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
“Trick of the trade, sir,” Isaacman replied hesitantly.
Later on, he told the NASA boss, ‘I like space’, before asking: “Is a president allowed to go up on one of these missions?”
“Sure, we can get working on that, sir,” Isaacman smiled back.
While Isaacman has been hailed for handling the bizarre interaction like a champ, social media onlookers have slammed the moment as damn right odd.
“Jesus. I feel awkward just watching that creepy s**t,” one X user claimed.
Another accused the President of mocking the NASA chief, adding: “Same. It’s horrible. I feel so bad for Isaacman. Trump and those who support him should be ashamed. But, unfortunately, they have no shame.
“He’s a bully and is everything most parents teach their children not to be, including those parents who voted for him. He’s vile.”
A third hit out: “Trump is a horrible person and has no feelings for others.”