Politics

Time to act your age America

Kaveree BamzaiSeptember 12, 2016 | 14:31 IST

So, the Americans are not in admiration of the fact that US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was diagnosed with pneumonia on Friday and given antibiotics, but still turned up to honour the victims of 9/11 in New York.

They are not in awe of the fact that a 68-year-old grandmother survived a serious surgery for a blood clot in 2012 and still put in the punishing hours required to win the Democratic nomination.

Oh no, because as Donald Trump says, many believe she "lacks the mental and physical stamina" to serve as president and fight the ISIS.

Frankly, I am glad I do not have a vote in America, but if I did, I would rather be led by a woman who has seen the inner workings of the White House and state department than a man who boasts he needs a plan in 30 days from the military to destroy the ISIS.

One of America's most beloved presidents, Ronald Reagan was 70 when he was first elected and 78 when he left office. (Photo credit: Reuters) 

George W Bush thought that with Osama bin Laden and we all know how long it took - to remind Trump, because as we all know, he has a tenuous grasp on facts, it took 12 years.

For those who attack Hillary Clinton for her age and fitness, I have two names: John F Kennedy, who spent much of his presidency on cortisone injections for his bad back; and before him Franklin Delano Roosevelt who was paralysed in 1921, 12 years before becoming president.

Kennedy was 44 when he took office, Roosevelt was 51.

And another name, Ronald Reagan. One of America's most beloved presidents was 70 when he was first elected and 78 when he left office.

Perhaps this great worry about Hillary's health has something to do with her gender? Sure, all Americans have the right to know about Hillary's health records (just as they need to know about Donald Trump's tax records and his hair status) but if she is considered old at 68, why is Donald Trump not considered over the hill at 70?

And sure Barack Obama has set new standards of fitness for the White House, but if that were the only reason for a person to become president, America should vote for Michael Phelps or import Usain Bolt.

If that doesn't work, there's always Kanye West, who has said one of his life goals is to run for president (after he's done baiting Taylor Swift.)

Age does bring experience and may I remind America that it's not exactly the youngest country on earth anymore.

The national median age of America is 36.8. In India, by 2020, it's expected to be 29. So there, America. It's time to be your age.

Also read - America is caught between a stupid Trump and a dishonest Hillary

Also read - Your dad needs help: Michael Moore pens a letter to Ivanka Trump

Last updated: September 13, 2016 | 17:15
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