Despite America’s infamous stark political division, there is one thing almost all Americans agree on: our politicians are way too old.
In light of Republican Senator Mitch McConnell’s recent episodes, becoming nonverbal and immobile on camera, more Americans than ever are questioning why people who were born before the invention of the microwave oven are still in power. Despite the letter from McConnell’s physician, claiming his mental competency, it’s clear that his job is too mentally taxing and important for someone of his age.
This issue isn’t limited to Republicans, it’s also prominent among Democrats. While the 90 year old Diane Feinstein has announced her plans for retirement in 2024, she is still in an important position of power at an age that most Americans will never reach. The 83 year old Nancy Pelosi recently announced that she will be running for reelection in 2024 for her House seat, despite her retirement seeming like a logical decision following her step down as Speaker of the House last year.
According to a CBS News poll from early September, 77% of Americans believe there should be a maximum age limit. This should be a sign for our political leaders that Americans are fed up. How are we supposed to feel safe when people who are in charge can’t take care of themselves? How are our concerns supposed to be met when the people with the power to meet them are from a world that no longer exists? And above all else, why are the decisions that will directly affect our future made by people who will never live to see it?
Whether it’s that United States Crude oil exports are expected to rise to 12.76 million barrels per day by the end of 2023, the world’s carbon emission levels reaching record highs, or Biden’s refusal to outlaw fracking, it’s clear that the people who have the power to create a better future aren’t using it.
It’s not the 80’s anymore. Times have changed. The world isn’t the same as it was when these people first got into power. Issues like climate change were not well-established threats throughout the majority of these people’s lives. Young people should have the power to decide their own futures.
With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, if either Trump or Biden win they will both be the oldest person ever elected to office. The steering wheel should no longer be in the hands of people who don’t know what wifi is.
