In a recent interview on MSNBC, previous House Speaker Nancy Pelosi responded to age-related critiques targeting President Biden. She humorously referred to him as a “kid” compared to her, underscoring her belief that age is not absolute, but rather contextual.
The hosts of “Morning Joe” asked Pelosi to comment on the increasing criticism around Biden’s age. She responded by saying that the president should take pride in his age and all the wisdom and expertise it brings to his role. She pointed out that the leader on the opposite side isn’t much younger, albeit without mentioning his name. She stressed that age is a relative concept, and that our nation benefits greatly from Biden’s leadership, accumulated wisdom, and know-how.
She reiterated that age should be seen as relative, and humorously pointed out that in her eyes, Biden is merely a youngster. “We wish for him to complete his work in progress. I couldn’t be more proud of him. We are indeed fortunate to have him in this position. Once again, age is relative. I recently attended a Democratic event in L.A., where I had a meeting with Norman Lear, who’s on the verge of turning 101, and Frank Gehry, an architect in his 90s. They referred to Biden, in his 80s, as a ‘kid’. To me, considering he’s younger, Biden is a kid too,” Pelosi expanded.
In an earlier interview with MSNBC in May, Biden himself presented his age as an asset. “I’m more informed than most people. My experience surpasses all previous candidates for the office, and I have proven to be a man of integrity and efficacy,” he had stated.
Pelosi also contended that the age-related criticism directed at Biden was merely a “pretext”, devoid of any substantial merit. She stated that the focus should remain on the forthcoming elections, in the interest of the younger generation and the populace at large.
However, concerns regarding Biden’s age and his capability to serve have been voiced by Democrats, constituents, and even his own advisory team, particularly as he prepares for the 2024 elections.
Axios, in an April report, claimed that his “immediate advisors” acknowledge that his age brings about certain difficulties. A few of them mentioned that his age has led to decreased energy levels and a more restricted schedule.
In a press briefing in April, when asked about voters’ worries about his age, Biden humorously stated that he couldn’t even “utter the number.” “When it comes to age, I can’t even tell you – I suppose, my age – I can’t even pronounce the number. It just doesn’t register with me,” said Biden, adding that people will be the judge of “whether I’ve got it or not.”
