Donald Trump has gone as far as calling himself 'brilliant and excellent young man'

Former US president Donald Trump, 78, has described himself as a “brilliant and excellent young man” while criticising Vice President Kamala Harris in a recent Truth Social post.

With President Joe Biden out of the race, Trump has become the oldest presidential candidate in history. Facing 59-year-old Harris, Trump emphasised his vitality despite the age difference.

In his post, Trump attacked Harris, stating, “Liar Kamala Harris, the Biden-appointed ‘Border Czar’ who has never visited the Border & whose incompetence gave us the WORST & MOST DANGEROUS Border in the world, has absolutely terrible voting numbers against a bright & fine young man named DONALD J. TRUMP.”

A Trump campaign spokesperson pointed to polls showing Trump leading Harris in key states including Michigan, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and North Carolina.

Trump’s claim of being "bright" and "young" is part of his ongoing strategy to counter criticisms of his age.

This isn't the first time he has emphasised his youthfulness; in April 2019, he told reporters, “I’m so young. I can’t believe it, I’m the youngest person. I’m a young, vibrant man.”

Trump’s harsh critique of Harris comes amid concerns within his campaign that she may be a more formidable opponent than Biden.

Trump campaign adviser Susie Wiles previously called Biden a “gift” and expressed more concern over other Democratic candidates.

Representatives for Harris did not immediately respond to requests for comment.