Concerns are mounting among Senate Democrats regarding Joe Biden’s age, now 81, and its potential impact on the Democratic Party’s prospects in the upcoming presidential election. Despite these concerns, the topic remains largely unspoken within the party’s internal discussions.
A report by The Hill revealed that within the Democratic caucus, discussions about Biden’s age and its implications are conspicuously absent, even though it is privately acknowledged as a significant issue. One Democratic senator expressed surprise at the lack of open dialogue on the matter, stating, “In all of our lunches, it’s never been discussed…but I don’t think that means that people aren’t worried about it.”
Polls indicating voters’ doubts about Biden’s capacity to fulfill presidential duties add to the unease. “I’m less worried about his ability…but I’m worried about a lot of people in the country” who question his competency, the senator remarked.
The challenge of addressing the age issue is compounded by the electoral timeline, with primaries underway and Super Tuesday approaching. Another Democratic senator noted, “We’ve hitched our wagon to Biden…we’re already into the primaries,” suggesting a sense of commitment to Biden’s candidacy despite the concerns.
The situation could shift dramatically if Biden were to experience a significant public health or cognitive incident. Comparisons are drawn to recent concerns about Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s health, hinting that a similar event could prompt a reassessment of Biden’s candidacy.
Senator Peter Welch (D-VT), speaking openly, emphasized the need for Biden to actively address the age concerns. He urged for a demonstration of “energy” and a forward-looking vision beyond merely opposing Trump.
Recent events have intensified the scrutiny of Biden’s age, such as a special counsel report referring to him as “an elderly man with a poor memory” and a notable gaffe where Biden mistakenly referred to the Egyptian President as the “president of Mexico.”
David Axelrod, a former strategist for Barack Obama, commented on the impact of such incidents, stating they resonate with existing anxieties about Biden’s capability, adding, “Fair or not, you can’t unring the bell.”