Donald Trump celebrated his 78th birthday, but his age raises questions about his ability to run a presidential campaign.
For months, Trump has criticized Joe Biden, calling him “decrepit” and highlighting his own dynamism. However, at 78, Trump faces similar questions about his abilities. Regardless of who wins the November 5 election, Biden or Trump, the next president will be the oldest to take the oath of office.
Trump celebrates his birthday on the campaign trail
For his birthday, the former Republican president organized a festive and political gathering near Mar-a-Lago, Florida. After a “happy birthday” chant from the crowd and cake next to his lectern, Trump attacked Biden and the migrants with his usual incendiary rhetoric. “We will close the border and send Joe Biden’s illegal aliens home,” he said.
Questions about the age of candidates
Polls show Americans are more worried about Biden’s age than Trump’s. Biden, 81, shows recurring signs of fatigue: stiff gait, stumbling, stuttering. Videos of him stumbling or walking away in a daze are widely shared.
Trump is not free from criticism. He has made several recent mistakes, such as mixing up the names of cities and leaders, and warning that the world was heading toward a second world war. In a closed-door meeting, he called Milwaukee “horrible,” drawing criticism.
Political reactions and attacks
Biden’s campaign team is using Trump’s mistakes to attack him. For Trump’s birthday, they released an unflattering photo and a scathing statement. “Happy birthday, Donald. You are a criminal and a threat to our democracy,” said Biden spokesperson James Singer. In return, Trump’s team called Biden a “brain-dead zombie.”
Debates over the age of presidents are not new. During Ronald Reagan’s second term, similar questions were raised. Former President Jimmy Carter expressed concern about the danger posed by a president with diminished capabilities.
Questions about the age and abilities of the candidates continue to dominate the debate. Trump and Biden will each have to prove that they are fit to lead the United States despite their advanced age.
Yves Manuel
Vant Bèf Info
With CNN
