In a recent interview with CNN's Jake Tapper on "State of the Union," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, 45, emphasized that the presidency is "not a job for somebody that is pushing 80," while comparing his own youthfulness to former President Donald Trump, 77, and President Joe Biden, who turns 81 on Monday. DeSantis argued that he is in the "prime of my life" and questioned whether Trump, if elected in 2025, would be older than Biden was at the start of his term.

The topic of age has quickly emerged as a central theme in the upcoming 2024 presidential race. President Trump has frequently mocked Biden and questioned his mental fitness for office, despite experiencing his own gaffes and verbal slips during his campaign. Governor DeSantis has capitalized on this dynamic by launching an "accident tracker" for Trump's gaffes, highlighting instances such as when Trump appeared to confuse Biden with former President Barack Obama.

DeSantis further commented on the potential mental acuity of Trump, stating, "I wouldn't be running unless I thought that the Democrats would beat Trump if he were the nominee." He suggested that Democrats are currently going easy on Trump during the Republican primary, but once he secures the GOP nomination, he believes they will pull out all the stops and make the election a referendum on Donald Trump.

With waning poll numbers, Governor DeSantis has maintained a vigorous campaign schedule, appearing at eight public events over the past two days. He notably stands out by often bringing his wife, Casey, and three young children along for campaign events. DeSantis expressed his determination to serve two terms, deliver significant results, and get the country moving again, asserting that these are the priorities of Republican voters.

As the 2024 presidential race takes shape, age and mental fitness will undoubtedly continue to be significant talking points. The contrasting dynamics between the younger and more seasoned candidates will play a crucial role in shaping voter perceptions and preferences. Only time will tell how these factors will impact the outcome of the election and the future of the United States.