As the age issue dominates the 2024 presidential election cycle, a look at the average age of congressional lawmakers reveals an interesting trend. More than half of the U.S. Senate is over age 60, with some members well into their 80s and 90s. This raises questions about the impact of age on decision-making and representation in government.
Here Are the 20 Oldest Members of Congress:
Senator Dianne Feinstein, Democrat of California, 90 (retiring)
Senator Charles E. Grassley, Republican of Iowa, 90
Senator Patrick J. Leahy, Democrat of Vermont, 81
Senator Richard C. Shelby, Republican of Alabama, 87
Senator James M. Inhofe, Republican of Oklahoma, 87
Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky, 81
Senator Bernie Sanders, Independent of Vermont, 81
Representative Don Young, Republican of Alaska, 89
Representative Paul D. Tonko, Democrat of New York, 73
Representative John A. Yarmuth, Democrat of Kentucky, 74
Sen. Chuck Grassley (90 years old). Sen. Chuck Grassley wearing a dark-colored business suit and standing at a table ... Following Feinstein's retirement, Grassley becomes the oldest member of Congress.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (90 years old). Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the former oldest member of Congress, briefly hospitalized after a fall at home.
Sen. Patrick Leahy (81 years old). Sen. Patrick Leahy, one of the oldest members of Congress, continues to serve in the Senate.
Sen. Richard Shelby (87 years old). Sen. Richard Shelby, a senior member of Congress, represents Alabama in the Senate.
Sen. James Inhofe (87 years old). Sen. James Inhofe, one of the oldest senators, has been a prominent figure in Congress for decades.
Looking for the age of every member of the 118th Congress? Get FiscalNote's report on the age of Congress, including the oldest, youngest, and interesting data points. The data provides insight into the demographics of our elected officials and the potential impact of age on policy decisions.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the oldest member of Congress, briefly hospitalized after a fall at home, her office says. Politics Updated on Aug 9, 2023. The incident highlights the challenges of serving in Congress at an advanced age and the importance of maintaining one's health while in office.
The oldest member of Congress, 90-year-old Sen. Charles E. Grassley, has been hospitalized for treatment of an infection, the Iowa Republican was being given infusions at a hospital. This raises concerns about the well-being of elderly lawmakers and their ability to effectively carry out their duties.
In conclusion, the age of congressional lawmakers is an important factor to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of our government. While experience and wisdom can be valuable assets, there are also concerns about the potential limitations that come with old age. As the 2024 election approaches, the age issue in Congress will continue to be a topic of debate and scrutiny.
