Reading Guide 4 (How Old is Too Old?)

Question 1

Give several examples mentioned in the article of why the age of U.S. lawmakers has increasingly become an issue.

Answer 1

“The problem is, you get elected to a six-year [Senate] term. You’re in pretty good shape, but four years later, you may not be so good.”
too old to make decisions that are important for this country
there isn’t an age to when you can stop serving the senate

Question 2

What are the arguments for establishing a mandatory retirement age for elected officials?

Answer 2

cognitive ability starts to decrease as age increases
too many health issues correlated with age

Question 3

What are arguments against establishing a mandatory retirement age for elected officials?

Answer 3

some older people can think as if they are 10,20,30 years younger than they are
more seniority, more seasoned staff, the opportunity to chair powerful committees, and the ability to funnel money toward one’s state—not to mention the accumulation of political wisdom and experience.