Why are U.S. Politicians Older?

U.S. politicians, particularly in higher offices like the presidency and Congress, are often significantly older than their international counterparts. For example, President Joe Biden recently exited the 2024 election at the age of 81 amidst concerns about his age and health. Similarly, former President Donald Trump remains a prominent figure in politics at 78 years old. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including age floors mandated by the constitution and the electorate's preference for experienced candidates who have proven success in other careers before entering politics. The U.S. Senate, with an average age of 64 in 2023, is even older than the House of Representatives, which has an average age of 57. Health issues among long-serving members have also raised questions about their capacity to fulfill demanding political roles. Yet, younger people face challenges like establishing a career and network for political fundraising, making it difficult for them to vie for these positions. The aging political class influences policy decisions, voter turnout, and political engagement, particularly among younger voters who often feel disillusioned by the two-party system. The older demographic in U.S. politics reflects a broader societal trend of an aging population, further complicating the integration of younger leaders into the political landscape.