Rep. James Clyburn Affirms Joe Biden, Age 86 in 2029, Could Have Served Full Term, Dismissing Mental Decline Concerns Before Cancer Diagnosis

Representative James Clyburn of South Carolina has publicly stated his belief that Joe Biden would have been capable of serving a full second term as president through January 2029, when Biden would be 86 years old. Clyburn emphasized that he never observed any indications that Biden was unable to perform the duties of the presidency, dismissing concerns about mental decline. He noted that cognitive conditions can affect individuals at various ages and suggested that some incidents, such as temporarily misplacing items, should not be conflated with incapacity. Clyburn's remarks came prior to Biden's terminal cancer diagnosis and have been reiterated in multiple interviews, including with CNN. The statements have sparked discussion about Biden's physical and mental fitness to serve another term, with Clyburn maintaining his position despite public skepticism.