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Kenneth Matthews
Professor Mullis
ENG111: Writing and Inquiry
February 22nd, 2024
Should There be a Maximum Age to be President?
The United States presidency is one of the most important jobs in the world. The position of the
president consists of governing the affairs and duties of armed forces, implementing laws written
by Congress, and executing foreign policy. A role of such requires leadership, wisdom, and
competence to properly lead a nation. With all this responsibility on the shoulders of one person,
the question must be asked, should there be an age maximum in the presidency? Due to health
disparities, technological literacy, and not giving younger candidates opportunities; there should
be a maximum age limit to competently govern the people of America.
According to a news article on CNN published in 2019 by Chandelis Duster and Steve
Brusk, former president Jimmy Carter joked “I hope there is an age limit” on presidency. This
began a much-debated topic on the requirements of leading the nation. Health is an important
aspect to consider as president. The presidency demands a lot from the body. Diplomacy is one
of the most important jobs as president and that requires a lot of overseas travel. That can wear
on the body over four years. As a person ages, the ability to make decisions becomes more of a
challenge. According to the article “Understanding Cognitive Decline: How your Brain Changes
as You Age” written by Rebecca Joy Stanborough, defines cognitive decline as a gradual loss of
thinking abilities like learning, remembering, paying attention, and reasoning. All very important
to have when leading a nation. Setting an age limit can guarantee that presidential candidates will
not have these challenges that come with age, promoting effective governance.
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The president should have the ability to adapt with the times. As technology advances
and social dynamics evolve, the presidency needs leaders who are adaptable and have a sense to
change with the times. Nowadays, everything runs on the internet. This poses a significant threat
to national security and presidents need to have a comprehensive understanding to collaborate
with cyber security experts to safeguard the airways. Promoting innovation and economic growth
through policies that foster innovation, the president can continually compete with the everevolving global economy. Most elders including elder presidents have had a tough time with
different innovations. George W. Bush during his presidency faced some criticism for his limited
use and understanding of how to use email. Ronald Reagan was said to have used handwritten
notes rather than engaging in the technology of his time.