Patti Davis, daughter of former President Reagan, recently expressed her opinion on the administration of cognitive tests for presidential candidates in an interview on NBC News’s “Meet the Press.” When asked about the matter, Davis responded affirmatively, stating that the United States should “probably” implement cognitive tests for those running for the nation’s highest office.
Davis elaborated on her stance, citing the effects of age on cognitive function and suggesting that administering such tests would likely be a beneficial precaution. She reflected on her father’s age upon leaving office at 77 after two terms and remarked on how relatively young that now seems.
The discussion around cognitive tests for presidential candidates has gained traction, particularly given the ages of current prominent contenders. President Biden, now 81, was elected to his first term at 77, while former President Trump, now 77, was sworn in at 70, breaking Reagan’s record as the oldest president to take office. Both Biden and Trump, as leading candidates for their respective parties, would be in their 80s by the end of potential future terms.
The potential for octogenarian presidents has prompted increased scrutiny of age and its implications for campaigning and governing. Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, 52, has emphasized her relative youth throughout her campaign and advocated for term limits and mental competency tests.
Reflecting on Reagan’s presidency, Davis highlighted his role in ending the Cold War and emphasized that he remained sharp despite his age. However, she acknowledged that perceptions of age may vary and noted Reagan’s later diagnosis of Alzheimer’s in 1994, with some speculation about symptoms preceding the official diagnosis. Reports have indicated concerns among White House staff about Reagan’s attentiveness and behavior, with aides even discussing the possibility of invoking the 25th Amendment, although this suggestion was swiftly dismissed by the chief of staff.
