Surf City, New Jersey - A recent poll conducted by NPR, PBS, and Marist College sheds light on President Biden's job approval across different age groups. The survey reveals that his weakest approval rating, standing at a mere 34%, comes from Gen Xers, individuals born between 1965 and 1980. On the other hand, his highest approval rating of 50% comes from baby boomers, while the oldest demographic, born before or just after World War II, also shows strong support for the president.
To gather a more nuanced perspective, our team spoke to residents in Surf City, New Jersey, a town with 1,300 residents located on the picturesque Jersey Shore. The conversation revolved around the issue of age and mental competence. Opinion among the group, consisting mostly of Republicans, varied when it comes to President Biden's fitness for another term.
Bill Willem, a 100-year-old Republican, expressed doubts about Biden's mental capabilities, citing past mistakes and wandering thoughts during his public appearances. However, Suzanne Gilbert, an 81-year-old Democrat, believes that Biden is mentally capable of fulfilling another term, drawing parallels between her own competency and the president's. Stanley Lerman, an 82-year-old Democrat, commended Biden's wealth of experience and ability to build a strong team.
Barbara Russell, 89, expressed concerns about Biden's age but also acknowledged that she had similar reservations about former President Donald Trump. Jim Russell, Barbara's 92-year-old husband and a councilman, questioned Biden's suitability for the presidency but held similar reservations about Trump. Franzoni, the youngest senior at 72 years old, expressed confidence in Biden's capabilities regardless of his age, countering any doubts.
The perspectives differed significantly when comparing Surf City to New York City, located 100 miles away. In the Big Apple, where Republicans are less dominant, opinions were divided. Pat Still, a 78-year-old, dismissed concerns of Biden's cognitive abilities, asserting that it was Trump who faced such challenges. Evan Janevik, an 89-year-old, touted Biden's unparalleled experience. However, Fran Lifson, an 87-year-old Democrat, believed that one's mental acuity naturally declines with age.
The discussion further touched upon presidential candidate Nikki Haley's proposal for mandatory mental tests for politicians over the age of 75. Bill Williams, aged 100, shared the sentiment of many, suggesting that such tests wouldn't be a bad idea for politicians of any age.
Meanwhile, the 91-year-old mayor of Surf City, who won his reelection and will be sworn in for another term soon, stands by the belief that Biden is too old, yet plans to continue serving as mayor until he turns 95, assuming he feels up to the task.
As opinions regarding President Biden's age and mental competence vary among residents across different age groups, the conversation surrounding these concerns continues to shape public discourse and political narratives.
