She is saying what many people have wanted since Biden came into office.
Patti Davis, daughter of former President Ronald Reagan, recently voiced support for the idea of cognitive tests for presidential candidates during an interview on NBC News’ “Meet the Press.” She acknowledged the potential impact of aging on cognitive function and suggested that such tests could be a prudent measure for assessing candidates’ fitness for office.
Ronald Reagan, who became the oldest president ever elected when he assumed office at the age of 69 in 1980, held that record until it was surpassed by both Donald Trump, elected in 2016 at age 70, and Joe Biden, elected in 2020 at age 78. Davis reflected on her father’s age at the end of his presidency, noting that he was 77 when he left office, which seems comparatively young in light of subsequent presidents’ ages.
Davis also shared insights into her father’s potential perspective on contemporary politics, suggesting that he would be troubled by the divisive rhetoric and lack of civility prevalent today. She emphasized Reagan’s commitment to civility and his aversion to personal attacks, expressing concern over the current state of discourse and the prevalence of cruelty in political discourse.
Furthermore, Davis, who has distanced herself from the Republican Party, has criticized its members for not speaking out more forcefully against Trump, whom she believes tarnishes her father’s legacy. She asserted that Reagan would be dismayed by the political climate under Trump’s presidency, emphasizing his likely disapproval of the negativity and lack of civility in contemporary politics.
In her latest book, “Dear Mom and Dad: A Letter About Family, Memory, and the America We Once Knew,” Davis delves into her personal experiences and family dynamics, including her relationship with her parents during her father’s presidency. Through her reflections and commentary, Davis offers a unique perspective on both her father’s legacy and the current state of American politics.
