An extensive survey conducted by Bloomberg News/Morning Consult reveals a prevalent sentiment among voters from seven pivotal swing states, with a vast majority expressing concerns about President Joe Biden’s age in the context of the upcoming 2024 election. The results come amid discussions on whether the 81-year-old president should seek re-election and have implications for his ability to galvanize support in these critical regions.
The analysis, carried out in mid-February, reports that a heterogeneous voter demographic, comprising groups traditionally aligned with the Democratic Party, holds the perception that the president may not possess the vitality required for a second term. This viewpoint extends across age groups, genders, and political affiliations.
The administration has recently addressed queries regarding President Biden’s age and cognitive sharpness. The scrutiny intensified following a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur that referred to the president as struggling with memory due to his advanced age. Nonetheless, a recent medical evaluation performed on the president confirmed his capability to fulfill presidential duties, with Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the Physician to the President, characterizing him as a “healthy, active 81-year-old.” Notably, the examination did not include a cognitive assessment, though an extensive neurological evaluation was part of the process.
Despite assurance from the medical team about Biden’s health, the poll indicates concern persists among the electorate. Interestingly, even among those who indicated their support for Biden’s re-election, a significant proportion harbored reservations about his age.
In comparison, the survey shows less apprehension about the age of Biden’s potential Republican counterpart, Donald Trump, who is 77. The poll also forecasts Trump as having a leading edge over Biden in the same key battleground states – Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin – that may prove instrumental in deciding the next U.S. president.
This data reflects the complexities and challenges faced by President Biden as he considers the prospect of re-election amidst a landscape of varying public opinion on age and leadership potential.
