Is President Biden too old for the job? That’s what ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith is saying, urging Democrats to nominate someone else in 2024. Smith believes that the responsibilities of the presidency are too extensive for someone in their 80s, regardless of their mental and physical health.
ESPN talking head Stephen A. Smith has caused a stir by suggesting that President Joe Biden should not be nominated to run for reelection in 2024. Smith raised concerns about Biden’s advanced age, arguing that an octogenarian is too old to hold the most powerful office in the world.
Speaking on his show on Friday, Smith drew attention to Biden’s recent stumble at the Air Force Academy’s graduation ceremony. While acknowledging that falls can happen to anyone, Smith raised questions about whether an older person has the physical and mental stamina required to lead a nation.
“Let’s face it, folks, Joe Biden is old. Too old for the presidency, in my opinion. It’s not ageist to say that. It’s just common sense,” Smith thundered.
He went on to argue that the presidency is an incredibly demanding job that requires focus, energy, and the ability to think on one’s feet. He suggested that these qualities may be lacking in a person of Biden’s age.
“I’m not saying that Joe Biden is feeble or anything like that. He’s still got a lot of life in him. But let’s be real – he’s 78 years old. That’s pretty darn old, if you ask me,” Smith said.
In an incendiary suggestion, Smith floated the name of former First Lady Michelle Obama as a potential Democratic nominee for 2024. Smith claimed that Obama would be a “slam dunk” for the Democrats, arguing that she has the charisma, intelligence, and youthfulness needed to take on the role.
“She’s smart, she’s energetic, and she’s got popular appeal. Plus, she’s not too old – she’s only in her 50s. Michelle Obama would be a breath of fresh air for this country, and the Democrats would be foolish not to nominate her,” Smith said.
Smith’s comments have sparked a firestorm of controversy, with many accusing him of ageism and disrespecting the President. However, some on the right have seized on Smith’s remarks as evidence that even the President’s own supporters have doubts about his fitness for office.
The issue of age in politics is a contentious one, with some arguing that older politicians bring wisdom and experience to the table, while others worry about their ability to keep up with the pace of modern life.
As Biden’s age and competence continue to be scrutinized, Democrats must consider whether they are setting themselves up for a disaster in the next election.
