Critical Analysis

Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, your big brain, the information provided and any links below:

1. According to the data from the visual above, what percent of Americans believe there should be mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians over 75?

2. Members of what political party are most likely to support mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians over 75?

3. Draw a conclusion about whether there is bipartisan support (support from both major political parties) for mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians over 75?

4. What group or institution would have to make a rule implementing mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians over 75?

5. Explain the likelihood of actual implementation of mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians over 75.

6. Joe Biden is currently the oldest president ever. Next year’s presidential election will most likely pit old Joe Biden (who would start his second term of office at age 82) versus old Donald Trump (who would start his second term of office at age 78). Why do you think so many American support mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians over 75?

7. Explain whether there should be mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians over 75? While you’re at it, explain whether there should be mandatory mental-competency tests for politicians UNDER 75?

8. Large majorities of Americans believe there should be a maximum age for someone to serve in the U.S. as president (76%), senator (73%), or member of Congress (72%). When asked what the maximum age should be, the average ages given (between the range of 35 and 100) are 67 for president and 66 for senator and member of Congress (the median age given is 70 for all three positions). If an age limit of 66 were in effect, almost half of senators currently in office would be ineligible, as the median age of current senators is about 65. Identify what you think should be the maximum age for the following offices: President; Senate; House; Santa Clause.

9. Following Mitch McConnell's second freezing episode last week, which prompted concern among his colleagues, new Economist/YouGov polling finds that a growing share of Americans believe the Senate minority leader's health and age severely limit his ability to do his job. But it’s not just Senator McConnell. Americans are concerned about the age of many senators and of the President. Why do you think so many Americans are concerned about our elderly politician population?

10. Explain the paradox that Americans say we should not allow older politicians to serve in office, yet we keep electing older and older politicians.

Visual Extension*

Learning Extension

Watch video of Senator Mitch McConnell (R), 81, freezing for 20 seconds in front of television cameras reverberated across the internet and newscasts. Less than 24 hours later, another clip surfaced of Senator Dianne Feinstein (D), 90, appearing confused when asked to vote in committee.

Or watch this video explainer from FiveThirtyEight about why there are so many Boomers in Congress.

Action Extension

You can sign this petition for mandatory retirement at age 65 for all 3 branches of government, or better yet, make your own petition. Share a link to your petition in the comments section below and I will share it with other students!