In the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, President Joe Biden found himself under intense scrutiny due to concerns surrounding his age, casting a shadow over his potential bid for a second term. At 82 years old during a hypothetical second inauguration and 86 at the end of his term, Biden’s age would make him the oldest president in U.S. history, surpassing the record set by President Ronald Reagan, who left office at 77.
The apprehensions about Biden’s age cut across party lines, according to the latest Rasmussen Reports national survey. An overwhelming 72% of likely U.S. voters viewed Biden’s age as a serious obstacle to his chances of winning a second term in 2024, with 46% deeming it a very serious problem. Even within his own party, 64% of Democrats acknowledged the gravity of this issue, reflecting a widespread concern that stretched to unaffiliated voters as well. Nevertheless, 57% of respondents remained optimistic, believing Biden was likely to be the Democratic presidential candidate in 2024, with 33% considering it very likely.
Republicans were particularly vocal about their reservations, with 80% expressing concerns about Biden’s age. This sentiment reverberated across gender lines, as 49% of men and 43% of women believed Biden’s age posed a very serious problem for his reelection chances.
Demographic factors played a role in shaping these opinions. Younger voters, those under 40, were less inclined to anticipate Biden as the Democratic Party nominee for 2024. Conversely, respondents aged 65 and older were less worried about the impact of his age on his chances of reelection.
Racial disparities were evident, with 74% of white voters, 61% of black voters, and 71% of other minorities believing that Biden’s age was at least a somewhat serious problem for his electoral prospects. Income brackets further influenced perceptions, as those earning more than $200,000 annually were more confident in Biden securing the 2024 Democratic nominee spot and were less likely to see his age as a significant obstacle to his reelection.
These survey results underscored the divisive nature of the American electorate as the 2024 election season unfolded. They provided a crucial backdrop for a campaign that would require President Biden to address concerns and doubts about his ability to lead the nation into a new era.
