In the past three months, three Democratic House members have died in office, while former President Joseph R. Biden Jr. announced a serious cancer diagnosis. Additionally, a new book has sparked renewed scrutiny regarding his declining capabilities as commander in chief.
The issue of age has become increasingly sensitive for the Democratic Party, which is grappling with various challenges. Party leaders are acknowledging the problem but are hesitant to directly address the aging of their colleagues as the 2025 elections approach.
The topic was brought to the forefront again on Wednesday with the announcement of the death of Representative Gerald E. Connolly, a Democrat from Virginia, at the age of 75. He is noted as the sixth House Democrat to pass away in office within the last year, according to the House press gallery’s “casualty list” of deaths, resignations, and retirements.
Connolly recently defeated younger member Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in a contest to lead the House Oversight Committee, dismissing the notion of generational change within the caucus as a “false narrative.” His death, following a public battle with esophageal cancer, elicited widespread grief among colleagues. However, it also highlighted risks for the party that prioritizes seniority and loyalty.
Former Representative Joe Cunningham, a 42-year-old Democrat from South Carolina, advocates for age and term limits in political office and has publicly urged Biden not to seek re-election. He expressed admiration for Connolly but emphasized the need for elected officials to consider stepping aside for new leadership.
Cunningham referenced the deaths of notable figures like Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Senator Dianne Feinstein, as well as Biden’s decision to run for a second term, which would conclude when he is 86 years old. Polls have indicated that many voters, including Democrats, have concerns about Biden's age and fitness for re-election.
Party leaders have defended Biden and highlighted his vigor, but they shifted their stance after a poor debate performance just months before the election, which limited the opportunity for a competitive primary campaign.
The release of the book “Original Sin” by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson has reignited discussions about Biden’s age-related limitations and the need for open conversations about such issues.
Amanda Litman, who leads a progressive group aimed at recruiting younger Democrats, stressed the importance of addressing age-related concerns publicly, even if the discussions are uncomfortable. She commended older Democrats who have chosen to retire on their own terms, suggesting that their departures could pave the way for new leadership.
Connolly had recently announced he would not seek re-election and would step down from his leadership role on the Oversight Committee. His family released a statement highlighting his accomplishments and dedication to public service over nearly 40 years.
While there is enthusiasm among voters for term and age limits, many politicians continue to resist these ideas, citing the value of experience. Age-related concerns have long been a topic in Congress, with examples such as Senator Strom Thurmond and more recently, Senator Mitch McConnell, who has faced health issues.
As younger Democrats prepare for the upcoming presidential primary, there is a call for the party to engage in a transparent dialogue about age. Cunningham emphasized the necessity of addressing these issues openly, likening it to a family meeting that requires honest conversations about the future of the party.