Does the age of Biden and Trump affect the VP race?

Question

Accepted Answer

The Age of the Presidential Nominees Significantly Impacts the Vice Presidential Race

The advanced age of President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden has elevated the importance of the vice presidential debate, making it one of the most consequential in recent memory. This heightened significance stems from the actuarial likelihood of the vice presidents assuming the presidency, coupled with the practical necessity of the running mates campaigning while the nominees themselves face health challenges.
The Actuarial Implication of Age

With Joe Biden at 77 and Donald Trump at 74, both are older than any previous US president at the time of their inauguration. Should Biden win, he would become the oldest president in American history. Trump, who recently spent time hospitalized with COVID-19, is only slightly younger. This demographic reality means that Vice President Mike Pence, aged 61, and Senator Kamala Harris, aged 55, are statistically more likely to ascend to the presidency during a potential term compared to vice presidential candidates in previous elections. This actuarial consideration inherently draws more attention to their qualifications and readiness to lead.
Campaigning Under Circumstances of Age and Illness

The age and recent illness of the presidential candidates place an additional burden on their running mates. As Trump has been sidelined due to his COVID-19 infection, Pence has been tasked with campaigning more extensively for their ticket. This situation amplifies the role of the vice presidential candidate, requiring them to not only articulate policy but also to serve as a surrogate and potentially a more prominent public face for the campaign. This dynamic has historically influenced vice presidential races, as voters may consider the vice president as a de facto extension of the presidential nominee, especially when the nominee's health or age is a concern.
Evasion on Succession and Health Information

When directly questioned about succession plans during the debate, neither Pence nor Harris provided a clear answer. Pence pivoted to discussing vaccines, while Harris spoke about her personal biography. Furthermore, neither candidate directly addressed why their elderly running mates had not released comprehensive health information. This avoidance of direct responses underscores the sensitive nature of the candidates' ages and health, and how it shapes the discourse and focus of the vice presidential contest. The lack of transparency on these matters further fuels public interest and scrutiny of the vice presidential nominees' preparedness to step into the highest office.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Does the age of Biden and Trump affect the VP race?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends