The Boomer politicians who won't retire
Summary
This episode examines the aging of the U.S. Congress and the debate over term limits, featuring an interview with 86-year-old Rep. Jim Clyburn. Clyburn defends his continued service by citing the value of experience and institutional knowledge, while dismissing calls for cognitive testing or generational turnover. The discussion also covers his endorsements, the Democratic Party’s recent electoral struggles, and the tension between establishment politics and younger voters' demands for change.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The aging of Congress and term limits
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Listener calls on age caps and cognitive tests
Interview with Jim Clyburn: Experience vs. Ego
Clyburn on mandatory cognitive evaluations
Clyburn on Biden's debate performance and support
Clyburn on Lindsey Graham and generational differences
Clyburn on CBC corporate PAC money and pharma
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Clyburn on AI and legislative knowledge
Clyburn on endorsing Cuomo and Mamdani
Clyburn on black voter turnout and party loyalty
Clyburn on the next generation of leaders
Host reflection and show credits
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