One could argue that the debate was a cognitive test for both Biden and Trump. The results speak for themselves. But the shooting in Pennsylvania was an even tougher cognitive test. Think about it.

Trump is speaking. Suddenly, unexpectedly, he feels pain in his right ear. He raises his hand, sees blood, and ducks beneath the lectern, which was probably armored. He probably did not react to the sounds of gunfire. The bullets were supersonic, so they reached Trump before the sounds of gunfire did, leaving him no time to react. His reaction was to the impact, not to the sounds.

This entirely  appropriate reaction to an unplanned, frightening event took 2 to 3 seconds. If that does not prove that Trump is not cognitively impaired, and in fact is as sharp as a young, trained soldier, then what would prove it? Surely not a paper test that was scheduled and prepared for.

Trump is sharp, situationally aware, and has an indomitable spirit. If you still can’t stand him, that’s democracy. But at least stop spreading lies that engender homicidal hatred. That is not too much to ask.