With Sanders in the Hospital, Dems Realize Just How Old Their Leading Candidates Are

Bernie Sanders was hospitalized today for "chest discomfort" and it was discovered he had blockage in 2 of his coronary arteries. The doctors placed a couple of stents in the arteries and Sanders should be okay in a couple of days.

But the 78-year-old Sanders is making Democrats nervous. It appears that Democrats have finally realized their top three candidates aren't exactly spring chickens and that they risk much by placing their faith in a candidate who, despite apparent good health, might have an "incident" at any time, making them vulnerable to charges that they're just too old.

The Hill:

Former Vice President Joe Biden, 76, has repeatedly heard questions about his age amid verbal flubs and statements, such as a comment about listening to records during one of the Democratic debates, that underscore how he is of an older generation.

As questions came up about his age and stamina, some allies suggested to the campaign that Biden pace himself.
Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), 70, have heard fewer questions about their age, and Sanders supporters have pointed to their candidate's vigorous schedule and said he had no signs of slowing down. “He walks faster than I walk,” one Sanders ally told The Hill.
But questions for Sanders are likely to step up after Wednesday.

As a senior citizen myself, I know that age shouldn't necessarily be a barrier to the presidency -- except when it is. While all three candidates may, indeed, be the font of health, life has a way of throwing curveballs your way when you're aging, no matter how healthy you think -- or pretend -- to be.

I am retired and in my late sixties, in excellent health, exercise every day—and there is _no_ _way_ I would subject my body and mind to the kind of stress that these candidates endure every day.

I'm a few years younger than you, and I couldn't agree with you more. The perks of power in DC must be awesome for people to pursue power instead of spending time with their families.

I usually get to pick up my grandson after school, it's the highlight of my day. Running for any public office is the furthest thing from my mind.

Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.