Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Legitimate concern?

I watched ABC's "This Week with George Stephanopolous" this past Sunday and a supporter from the Obama campaign and one from the McCain campaign were on. The lady representing the McCain campaign raised the issue that attacking McCain for his age is age discrimination.

Is it ever ok to judge whether of not someone is fit to take on a job based on age? If so, what jobs or occupations?

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Personally, I think the age argument doesn't really do any good. Look at McCain's mother; she's 96 and fit as a fiddle.

Aside from the obvious construction jobs and other hard labor work, anyone who is dedicated enough to work towards something should have the equal opprotunity to do so.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous...interesting. McCain's mom and her son are different issues. John has a documented history of health concerns and is running for a demanding job. The presidency requires a lot more mental capability as opposed to physcial.

I'm not questioning whether or not McCain should be on the ballot or "have the opportunity." I question whether voters should consider his age and whether or not he is fit for the job.

Liquid said...

I adore McCain and am faithful that in the event that his age is a problem, Sarah Palin could handle this country without pause.

Have a super day!

Liquid said...

If Obama is elected, well, I think he would be just a bullet away from gone. Just my thoughts. And Biden as president of this country......well........you've gotta sell me on the fact that he can even dress himself in the morning.

Again, just my thoughts.

Anonymous said...

Liquid...the sad part about your bullet comment is that there is indeed a fear that some racist would plot something against Obama. Some people will not get over the past.

Regarding Biden...I haven't seen any instances of "wardrobe malfunctions" to cause concern. :)

Palin...There's a reason why her appearances are kept tight and scripted. I give her credit. She's good at public appearances. But her resume doesn't lend herself to being qualified for my tastes. Not knowing the current president's policies on foreign relations was pretty embarrassing, especially when she's trying to build a case that it's she is qualified for the job.

But hey, we'll see. Who knows? Governors have been in the White House the last several years...Bush and Clinton, except those two were in office longer than Palin's tenure.

Anonymous said...

To answer your question Struke, I believe that there are some cases in which it is ok to judge if someone is fit to take on a job based on their age.

We are dealing with that right now at work. We have a physician who is 73 y/o and still delivering babies full time. As you know, doctors have to take call 24 hours a day sometimes. Concerns arise about their ability to continue to use good judgment, and response time in emergency situations.

A wonderful doctor, yet age does affect us all at some point. Safety is key.

Excellent post.

Bella