Trump Turns 78 – Age Becomes a Growing Issue
Trump’s Image of Vigor
Trump uses the right-wing media to build an image of vigor. He contrasts himself with Biden, whom he calls “sleepy” or senile. Trump stages photo-ops with martial arts personalities and performs his trademark dance at rallies. Heavy use of cosmetics and hairspray give him a tanned and younger look from a distance.
Birthday Celebration in Florida
Trump celebrated his birthday in West Palm Beach, Florida. He gave an hour-long campaign speech before paying guests. Club 47 USA, a Trump supporters’ group, hosted the event near Mar-a-Lago. The crowd sang “Happy Birthday” as he stood on stage before a row of American flags. “Wow, is that a nice crowd,” he said, before launching into his speech. Invitations referred to him as “the best president ever.”
Republican Support
The former president is used to flattery. Almost the entire Republican Party now supports him. On Thursday, he received a happy birthday message in Washington from Republican members of Congress. These included senior figures who denounced him three years ago after a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol.
No Warm Wishes from Biden
There were no warm wishes from Biden’s camp. The president’s reelection campaign posted an unflattering photo of Trump, titled: “Ah, another year around the sun for Donald Trump.” They listed 78 “accomplishments,” including bankruptcies, far-right rhetoric, alleged sexual misconduct, and recent felony conviction. “Happy birthday, Donald. You’re a crook, a failure, a fraud, and a threat to our democracy,” Biden campaign spokesman James Singer said. A Trump spokeswoman described Biden as a “weak and incompetent candidate.”
Public Perception of Age
Polls show that a majority of Americans think Biden is too old. A smaller majority thinks the same of Trump. Trump faces months of intense media exposure, increasing the risk of gaffes similar to those that have plagued Biden.
Recent Controversies
Trump recently called Milwaukee a “horrible” place, causing a mini firestorm. Attention is growing on his bizarre comments during speeches. He recently gave a tirade against electric vehicles involving a sinking boat, a shark, and electrocution.
Trump’s View on Age
Trump acknowledges that attacks on Biden’s age could backfire. “He’s not too old at all,” Trump said in an interview last September. “Age is interesting because some people are very sharp, and some people do lose it.”
Biden’s Response
Biden agreed there are nuances to the age question. “Happy 78th birthday, Donald. Take it from one old guy to another: Age is just a number,” he posted on X. “This election, however, is a choice.”
