Sunday, June 26, 2022

The Sudden Concern About the Gerontocracy in America

Now, after President Trump had the opportunity to appoint Justices who would return the Supreme Court to their original (Marbury v. Madison) focus on assessing the Constitutional legitimacy of legislation and regulation, the Dems are SUDDENLY concerned about old folks in elected or appointed seats.

They were fine about doddering old Diane Feinstein, Nancy Pelosi, Steny Hoyer, Maxine Waters, Bill Pascrell, Grace Napolitano, and Eddie Bernice Johnson. All are in their 80s or older. There are Republicans on the list, too, including Chuck Grassley, among others.

But, look to younger, potential competitors to spread "concern" about them in anonymous comments to reporters, and, with luck, clear the way for younger players. THAT'S what is behind the push to get rid of the old people in government. They are afraid that, should that incumbent run against a younger, more energetic opponent, the Dems could lose that seat. They want to shove that long-serving member out before that happens.

Now, is Di-Fi really losing it? Very likely. But, the right way to remove her is to get the leadership to pressure her to retire. For many of these geezers, not gonna happen.

So, take the sudden "concern" about senility or health of an aging politician with a heavy dose of salt. It's not that they care about the old person's functioning. It's that they care how it affects their chances of staying in power.

However, I would be thrilled to have a mandatory retirement age for government paid workers of around 80. Yes, there are a few who stay alert and able well into their 80s and 90s - but not many. And, the decisions need to be made by people who are young enough to have skin in the game. 

I would also like a cap on post-retirement income for military, Congress, and people who can affect administration of government funds. For 2-5 years, they should NOT be able to take jobs with those who could have been affected by their actions. That's not the case, currently.

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