Democratic Primaries
In reply to the discussion: Let Me Be Blunt. [View all]Martin Eden
(12,843 posts)... the stress and mental demands of a president burdened with myriad consequential responsibilities who must also be able to learn and process new information and make critically important decisions -- often during an extended crisis which can be physically as well as mentally demanding.
This isn't just a matter of opinion. Decline with age is a biological reality, supported by science. In the article below, people in the upper percentiles can retain memory into an advanced age and their abilities based on previous experience can remain intact, but learning and processing new information declines. That can be a severe limitation for a president.
National Institute on Ageing
As with anything there are exceptions -- people in the very top percentiles -- but there is decline, nevertheless. Among even the healthiest adults, risk factors both mental and physical increase with age.
And let's remember we are not talking about someone who is enjoying a relatively easy retirement lifestyle; we're talking about the most powerful and demanding elective office on earth. Joe Biden has been known for gaffes throughout his political career, going back decades.
Personally I'm not willing to take that risk, and how old is too old to be president -- 90; 95; 100?
primary today, I would vote for: Joe Biden