The U.S. Libertarian Party has made an unusual move by seeking conservatorships for President Joe Biden and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, labeling them as “geriatric elites” with cognitive impairments that render them incapable of effectively representing the American people.
The 80-year-old Biden continues to grab headlines with his gaffes, rambles, and disjointed commentary. Meanwhile, McConnell, at 81 years of age, has had two incidents where he appeared to “freeze up” during interviews.
Angela McArdle, who leads the Libertarian National Committee, the third-largest political party in the U.S., said that this marks the first time such conservatorship filings have been initiated against current politicians.
McArdle explained that the Libertarian Party has consulted with several lawyers who argue that, according to Washington, D.C. law, it’s possible for an organization to establish a conservatorship over an individual.
A conservatorship is a legal arrangement in which a court appoints an individual or organization to make decisions and manage the affairs of someone who is unable to do so themselves. This typically occurs when the individual is deemed incapable of making sound decisions due to factors such as mental illness, disability, or advanced age.
The appointed conservator takes on responsibilities such as managing financial assets, making medical decisions on their behalf, and ensuring their overall well-being. The extent of the conservator’s authority can vary, depending on the court’s order and the specific circumstances of the affected individual. Conservatorships are subject to court oversight to ensure that the person’s rights and interests are safeguarded.
McArdle observes, “We’re committed to filing this thing, and we wanted to send a really strong statement that we’re serious about getting someone in the White House who has the mental capacity to run the country because we don’t have that right now.”
The petition for President Biden’s conservatorship outlines several reasons for his mental incapacity. It points out that he displays apparent signs of mental confusion and cognitive decline when in public, often seeming disoriented and struggling with his speech. Moreover, his financial management abilities are called into question. The petition cites a substantial increase in the national debt, exceeding $4.8 trillion since he assumed office in 2021. The petition also claims his involvement in an “unwinnable” conflict in Ukraine is a concern.
The petition concerning Senator Mitch McConnell shares similarities. It also highlights the subject’s apparent mental confusion and cognitive decline during public appearances, citing an instance of him experiencing a “stroke” during an interview. Additionally, it raises concerns about his sending taxpayer funds overseas and, like Biden’s, questions his financial management capabilities. Furthermore, like the President, McConnell’s continued support for U.S. involvement in Ukraine is referenced as a point of contention.
Congressman John James (R-MI) recently introduced a proposal aiming to amend the Constitution, preventing individuals from running for reelection if they hit age 75 during their term.
However McArdle expressed reservations regarding age-limit restraints due to factors like increased life expectancy and individual variations in how age impacts people. Nonetheless, she believes that individuals, such as Biden, Trump, or others who would be 80 or older during their projected time in office, are “too old” to run.
McArdle criticizes both President Biden and Senator McConnell for holding public office for decades while accumulating significant wealth through various means, including Super PACs, lobbyists, and taxpayer funds.
She expressed similar concerns about other cognitively impaired and aging members of Congress. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) is now aged 90 and wheeled around the White House in secrecy while 83-year-old Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) still rules with an arthritic iron fist. Meanwhile, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) suffered a stroke prior to his election and needed the entire dress code rewritten to address the slovenly habits caused by his lingering mental challenges.
While it’s unlikely that the Libertarian petitions will advance, the point is clear. It’s time we had leaders who can remember where they left their car keys. It seems “seasoned” politicians like Biden and McConnell are experiencing more than their fair share of senior moments, causing some to question if it’s time for them to pass the bingo card instead of legislation.
