Questioning age: Health transparency and political tactics in the 2024 election
The White House has published a detailed report on the health of 59-year-old U.S. presidential candidate Kamala Harris. According to the AFP and AP news agencies, this move may aim to highlight that Donald Trump, now 78, has not yet shared similar health data.
According to the report, Kamala Harris, assessed by U.S. Army Colonel Dr. Joshua Simmons, enjoys "excellent health." This supports her mental resilience and physical capability to assume the presidency.
"The New York Times," via AFP and AP, emphasizes that in light of Trump's absence of a health report, public attention is increasingly drawn to the candidates' physical and mental well-being. Harris's remarks suggest a political tactic to spotlight the age of her opponents.
Is Trump too old to be president?
AFP notes, however, that according to recent surveys, the candidates' health is not a primary concern for voters.
Nonetheless, in a Gallup survey released on Thursday, 41 percent of respondents stated they believe "the former president is too old" to serve another term. The prevailing dynamics still highlight age as a significant factor in politicians' public image.
Following Joe Biden's decision not to seek re-election, there has been increased public reflection on the candidates' ages and conditions, primarily Donald Trump. The presidential election is quickly approaching, and if Trump wins the November election, he would be 78 years and 219 days old at the inauguration, making him the oldest U.S. president in history.
Former president's speeches under scrutiny
According to Reuters, Trump's reluctance to provide a comprehensive health report amid rising concerns about his physical and mental fitness fuels speculation among media and business sectors. At a Washington press conference, heads of large companies were surprised at how 'meandering' his statements were, reports Bloomberg. Media commentaries also highlighted that during meetings, Trump "does not stick to a single train of thought for long."
In the election campaign, Harris and other leading figures in the Democratic Party may seek to capitalize on the skepticism regarding Trump's health. Democrats highlight the remarks of the former president "have grown darker, harsher, longer, angrier, less focused, more profane and increasingly fixated on the past," as described in articles by "The New York Times."
