Harris health report intensifies focus on age in 2024 race
The White House has released a comprehensive report on the health of the U.S. presidential candidate, 59-year-old Kamala Harris. According to AFP and AP agencies, this might be an effort to highlight that 78-year-old Donald Trump has not yet provided similar information.
According to the report, Kamala Harris, examined by U.S. Army Colonel Dr. Joshua Simmons, is in "excellent health", which confirms her sufficient mental resilience and physical capability to assume the office of President.
"The New York Times," via AFP and AP, stresses that, in light of Trump's absence of a health report, public attention is increasingly on the candidates' physical and mental condition. Harris's remarks suggest an attempt to address the political implications of the opponents' ages.
Is Trump too old to be President?
AFP, however, notes that, according to the latest surveys, voters are not primarily concerned about the health condition of the candidates.
Nonetheless, in a Gallup survey published on Thursday, 41 per cent of respondents believe "the former president is too old" to serve again. The current situation highlights the continuing significance of age as a factor in politicians' public image.
It is noted that, following current President Joe Biden's decision not to seek re-election, there has been increased public reflection on the age and condition of the candidates, particularly Donald Trump. The presidential elections are fast approaching, and Trump, who would be 78 years and 219 days old at the time of a potential inauguration, would become the oldest U.S. president if he wins the November elections.
Former president's speeches under scrutiny
According to Reuters, Trump's refusal to publish a full health report amidst growing questions about his physical and mental condition is fuelling speculation in the media and business circles. At a press conference in Washington, heads of large companies were surprised at how 'meandering' his statements were, reports Bloomberg. Media commentary also pointed out that during meetings, Trump "does not stick to a single train of thought for long."
During the election campaign, Harris and other leading figures in the Democratic Party may seek to leverage the scepticism surrounding Trump's health. Democrats highlight the remarks of the former president "have grown darker, harsher, longer, angrier, less focused, more profane and increasingly fixated on the past," as described in articles by "The New York Times."
