In a telling Super Tuesday, March 5 conversation on “Mornings with Zerlina” aired on SiriusXM, Hillary Clinton, the former Secretary of State, delved into the discussions surrounding President Joe Biden’s age as he seeks re-election, advocating for his continued leadership despite his advanced age.
Clinton recognized Biden’s age as a fact “You know what, Joe Biden is old. Let’s go ahead and accept the reality.” Clinton said.
Clinton highlighted the electoral decision facing voters: choosing between Biden, 81, and former President Donald Trump, who is 77 years old. She presented the election as a choice of someone who is old but effective and doesn’t threaten democracy and someone who is old, doesn’t make sense, and is a threat to democracy, pointing to former president Trump. Clinton’s framing emphasizes democratic values and leadership effectiveness over age-related concerns.
Poll data reflects substantial voter anxiety regarding Biden’s age and his mental fitness for a second term. A New York Times/Siena College survey revealed that 61% of Biden’s 2020 supporters now see him as too old to serve effectively. This concern extends to nearly 73% of all registered voters, whereas only 42% view Trump in a similar light, with a mere 14% of his previous backers agreeing.
Moreover, an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll indicates that over 60% of American adults question Biden’s mental capability to effectively fulfill presidential duties. A parallel concern for Trump is evident, with 57% doubting his mental acuity for the presidency. These findings underscore the significant role of age and mental fitness perceptions in the 2024 presidential race.
Clinton also referenced a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur that characterized Biden as “a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.” While this report poses a challenge for Biden, Clinton’s argument pivots towards a broader, value-based choice for voters, focusing on the protection of democracy and the rule of law.
Despite these hurdles, Clinton’s advocacy for Biden stresses the importance of choosing a leader who safeguards democratic principles. Her commentary comes at a critical moment, as the nation contemplates leadership, age, and democratic integrity ahead of another presidential election.
The discourse surrounding the ages of Biden and Trump reflects not only on their physical capability but also raises questions about experience, leadership, and the capacity to navigate complex challenges. As the United States nears the election, the debate over age, mental fitness, and democratic values continues to be a pivotal aspect of national decision-making.