2007-02-12 19:31:10 · 8 answers · asked by rajani_iim 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Politics
The voters determine if a person is qualified, and age limits are age descrimination
2007-02-12 19:36:37 · answer #1 · answered by Nort 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There are qualifications for some elected officials, notably the president, who has to be an American-born citizen at least 35 years old. Also, the vice president and president can't be from the same state, though the Extreme Court negated that constituional provision when they let Bush and Cheney run on the same ticket.
Other than that, the founding fathers assumed the voters would be smart enough to decide their own criteria.
Besides, running for public office on a platform of one's own choosing is the ultimate expression of free speech and is a right protected by the First Amendment in all but extreme cases.
Who else would be qualified to set the criteria? Other politicians? Don't make me laugh. They would make it so only other crooks like themselves could get elected.
2007-02-12 19:38:10 · answer #2 · answered by chimpus_incompetus 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are no qualification and retirement age prescribed for Politicians..........because politicians write the laws !
2007-02-12 19:43:50 · answer #3 · answered by JOHN B 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree. Just like having to pass a driving test every x # of years to have your license renewed.
The one that bothers me the most is why isn't there a mandatory requirement age like there is for the public in many industries... there should be. Congressional members shouldn't be treated any better than any other citizen.
2007-02-19 12:32:48 · answer #4 · answered by BeachBum 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's up to the voters who choose to elect them or to send them back home to roost. As long as they can ably serve, why not? Even the issue of "term limits" have been thrown out by the country. It's a dead issue.
2007-02-12 19:38:37 · answer #5 · answered by gone 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Politicians must be of legal age upon filing their certificates of candidacy but when old must be physically, mentally and medically fit to perform the duties.
2007-02-12 19:39:22 · answer #6 · answered by FRAGINAL, JTM 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Age in many cultures is considered to equal wisdom. If you don't like a candidate because of his or her age, don't vote for them. It's a free country.
2007-02-12 19:45:03 · answer #7 · answered by iwasnotanazipolka 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Let them serve! I would rather be paying them to sit on their rear in Washington than sitting on their rear at home still collecting!
2007-02-12 19:52:49 · answer #8 · answered by cantcu 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋