Concerns are rising about the age of lawmakers in the U.S. Congress, with some questioning whether they possess the necessary mental acuity and fresh ideas to lead the country. While several elderly lawmakers are retiring, many remain in powerful positions.
After being absent from the public eye for nearly six months, GOP Representative Kay Granger was found at an independent senior living facility suffering from memory loss, the Dallas Express reported over the weekend. Granger, who announced last year she would not seek re-election, is among the elder lawmakers departing the House as the 118th Congress winds down.
The federal government has earned a reputation as being something of a gerontocracy, with power concentrated among a group of senior members significantly older than the majority of the adult population. The current House, for example, has an average age of 58, making it the third oldest in history. But some are hopeful that a new generation of politicians are being ushered in. Granger and two other House lawmakers in their 80s are set to retire. That includes Representative Grace Napolitano, who is currently the oldest member of the chamber at 88. Representative Anna Eshoo, 82, is also retiring. Both are Democrats. But even as the public grows increasingly concerned over whether aging politicians have the mental acuity or fresh ideas needed to lead the country, many have held onto their seats. The House's octogenarian members remain some of the most powerful in the chamber. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who recently received hip replacement surgery for a fall, is one of the most influential Democrats at 84. Also 84 is Representative Jim Clyburn, who was credited with helping Joe Biden—the oldest U.S. president in history—win the White House in 2020. Both Pelosi and Clyburn will return to their seats next year, as will Representatives Hal Rogers, 86; Maxine Waters, 86; Steny Hoyer, 85; Danny Davis, 83; John Carter, 83; Fredrica Wilson, 82; Rosa DeLauro, 81; Virginia Foxx, 8; Jan Schakowsky, 80; Doris Matsui, 80 and Emanuel Cleaver, 80
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