Polls show Biden’s age is a negative for many Americans, including people within his own party. But he has handled huge domestic and foreign policy challenges competently, including the war in Ukraine in co-ordination with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, 45, whose leadership has been remarkable.
Our own main party leaders, Labour’s Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, 45, and National’s Christopher Luxon, 53, are Gen X.
In a broad sense, Romney is correct in that generational renewal is obviously needed and that issues such as climate change and use of technology have more impact on the lives of younger people than those nearing the end of their life spans.
Other factors such as upbringing, education, life and work experience, poverty and privilege, intelligence and sharpness, personal outlook and values, shape people who end up in charge.
A person can be younger in years and still be unqualified for a major job or out of touch with what’s required for the future. An older person has a great deal of experience to draw on.
Age and generation status aren’t the only things to consider.
