Jake Tapper Tuesday asked Karine Jean-Pierre about President Joe Biden’s age, discussing a poll that indicated most Americans are concerned about it. The CNN host added a personal touch to his point of view. (Check out the video below.)
“Joe Biden was in politics literally before you were born. And he’s the same age as all of us,” the CNN anchor told the White House press secretary. (Jean-Pierre was born in 1974, about two years after Biden was first elected to the Senate.)
Tapper started the grilling with a quote an AP-NORC survey 77% of American adults said 80-year-old Biden was too old for a second term, and just 51% said 77-year-old Trump was too old for their possible 2024 presidential duel.
“Is the White House concerned that questions about President Biden’s endurance could ultimately impact whether or not voters can support him for a second term?” asked Tapper.
Jean-Pierre declined to speak at the election, later citing the Hatch Act’s restrictions on partisan activities by federal employees. “What this President brings to this administration is wisdom and experience,” she replied, citing his ability to advance historic legislation and overcome previous doubts about his age. Jean-Pierre added that he “has his finger on the pulse of what the American people need.”
But Tapper was undeterred. He mentioned Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley’s comment on Biden would not serve a second termso Vice President Kamala Harris is the next President.
Jean-Pierre said she would not respond directly to Haley’s remark due to the Hatch Act, but cited some of the president’s accomplishments, including his efforts to lower drug prices and enlist allies to support Ukraine. “He knows how to get the job done,” she said.
“But I’m talking about his age and his stamina and his ability to do the job,” Tapper said. “And you’re talking about the record, and I understand why you’d rather talk about the record. But I’m talking about what Americans see when they turn on the television.”
Jean-Pierre cited the President’s visit to war-torn Ukraine as an example of his drive.
“I’m not saying he can’t walk,” Tapper said.
“No, but you’re talking about his strength, aren’t you?” She answered. “You’re talking about how he looks right now.”
“He’s 80,” Tapper said. “I believe the median age of an American male is only 77 years or so.”
“It’s difficult for us to keep up with this President,” said Jean-Pierre.
Fast forward to 3:29 for the section on Biden’s age: