Old timers

A pensioner in a blue suit stands before a crowd. His hair is white and his face is wrinkled. When he speaks, his voice is slow and hoarse. "I know it may not look like it," he tells the crowd, "but I've been around awhile."

Last Thursday, Joe BidenThe president of the USA, elected in 2020. delivered the annual State of the UnionAn annual message delivered by the president of the United States on the condition of the nation.  address. Speaking in front of CongressThe legislative branch of the American government, where elected representatives vote on which laws should be passed. Congress is made up of two chambers: the Senate, which contains two members from each of the 50 states, and the House of Representatives, which has representatives from 435 smaller districts., the American president was focussed and energetic. Some were surprised by this performance, given how confused he has appeared in recent appearances.

The speech mattered, because the country is hurtling towards its next presidential election in November. Earlier in the week, several important states chose Donald Trump as the Republican candidate for president. If Trump competes against Biden, they will be 77 and 81 respectively, setting a record for the ages of presidential candidates.

These campaigns can be gruelling, and the top job is no less tiring. Presidents have to balance national politics with America's many responsibilities around the world. According to polls, 59% of Americans think that both men are too old to serve another term.¹

But Biden is not the oldest serving head of state. That record belongs to Paul Biya, the president of Cameroon, who is 91. The oldest ever was Prem Tinsulanonda, who became regentA person who runs a country for a limited amount of time while the monarch is absent. of Thailand aged 96 years and 97 days.

In the UK, the oldest prime minister was William Gladstone. He was appointed at the age of 82 years and 231 days - although he had occupied the job three times before - and retired at 84. If Joe Biden wins the election and serves a full term, he will retire at 86. This is why some people have suggested the job should carry an age limit.

Critics argue that US politics is a "gerontocracy", which means "government by the elderly". It is common for monarchs, religious leaders and dictators to be old, but much rarer in a democracy. If younger candidates cannot replace the current leaders, there could be something wrong with the system.

As people age, their brains begin to shrink. This slows the speed that they process information. As the well-known political consultant Frank Luntz comments: "You can't fix age." ²

However, age is not always a disadvantage. Good judgement comes from experience, which takes time to acquire. Daniel J Stone, a doctor working with older patients, argues: "The presidency is not a job that requires lightning-quick reflexes." ³

In the case of Biden and Trump, both men have served as president already. Surely their record in office is more important than how many years they have been alive? Judging a candidate on their age is like judging them on their weight, appearance or gender.

As healthcare improves and the birth rate declines, Western society will have a higher percentage of elderly people. Keeping them working is good for the economy. The challenge is making sure older people stay active, without taking away chances from younger generations.

Should politicians retire at 70?

Yes: Age matters. The majority of the American population think Biden and Trump are too old. If they won't stand down, rules should prevent them from running again.

No: Age is just a number. When it comes to politicians, what matters is their character, experience and record of achievements.

Or... Given the ageing population, society needs to find a way of keeping the elderly employed. But if this comes at the cost of opportunities for young people, nobody wins.