Speakers discuss age in politics at University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder Conference on World Affairs held a thought-provoking panel discussion on March 16, 2023, titled "Why Are Grandma and Grandpa Running the Country?" The panel aimed to explore the issue of aging political leaders and its implications for representation and inclusivity in politics.

The panel featured a diverse group of speakers including political scientists, activists, and policymakers. One of the key points raised during the discussion was the demographic shift occurring in the political landscape, with an increasing number of older politicians holding positions of power. According to a 2022 analysis by the Center for American Progress, the average age of members of Congress has been steadily rising over the past few decades, with the current average age being 58 years old.

The panelists discussed the potential consequences of this trend, particularly with regards to representation and inclusivity. Older politicians may not fully understand or represent the needs and concerns of younger generations, leading to a lack of diversity in policy-making. Furthermore, an aging political class may not be as attuned to emerging issues or technological advancements that are important to younger voters.

Another issue raised during the discussion was the impact of aging political leaders on the longevity and sustainability of political careers. Older politicians may be less willing or able to step down, leading to a logjam of long-serving politicians and a lack of new blood in the political arena. This can stifle innovation and prevent fresh perspectives from being brought to the table.

The panel also touched upon potential solutions to address this issue, such as implementing term limits or encouraging younger candidates to run for office. Some countries, such as Russia and Israel, have term limits for their political leaders, while others, like France and Germany, have mandatory retirement ages for politicians. In the United States, there have been ongoing debates about implementing term limits for members of Congress, with some arguing that it would lead to more diverse representation and new ideas.

The panel concluded with a call to action for younger generations to get involved in politics and run for office, as well as for older politicians to consider stepping down and making way for new leadership. The discussion highlighted the importance of addressing the issue of aging political leaders to ensure that political representation remains inclusive and responsive to the needs of all generations.

In summary, the University of Colorado Boulder Conference on World Affairs panel "Why Are Grandma and Grandpa Running the Country?" explored the issue of aging political leaders and its implications for representation and inclusivity in politics. The discussion highlighted the trend of an increasing number of older politicians holding positions of power, and the potential consequences for diversity and innovation in policy-making. The panel also touched upon potential solutions to address this issue, such as term limits or encouraging younger candidates to run for office.