Cognitive Tests Proposed for Aging Congress Members

With Congress now having a record number of members over age 70, concerns about cognitive decline among lawmakers have grown. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) proposed mandatory cognitive fitness tests for members of Congress, citing publicized incidents involving President Biden and other senior officials as a catalyst. Her amendment, which would have directed the Office of Congressional Conduct to develop cognitive standards, was rejected by the House Appropriations Committee, with critics arguing that elections are the proper measure of fitness. Perez continues to advocate for the tests, highlighting strong constituent support and concerns that unelected staffers are running congressional offices. The proposal has met resistance from older Congress members, who view it as a personal attack. The debate underscores broader questions about accountability and the effectiveness of an aging legislature.