Democratic presidential hopeful Joseph R. Biden admitted he’s an “old guy” and needs to choose a vice president who can lead the country in the event he dies in office.
Mr. Biden addressed concerns about his age during a campaign event Tuesday in Clinton, Iowa.
“I can think of at least eight women, at least four or five people of color, that I think are totally qualified to be vice president of the United States,” the former vice president told the audience.
“But for me, it has to be demonstrated that whoever I pick is two things: One, is capable of being president because I’m an old guy,” he continued, prompting laughter. “No, I’m serious. Look, I thank God I’m in great health. I work out. No, I’m serious. You know, I work out every morning. I’m in good shape — knock on wood, as my mother would say.”
Mr. Biden, 77, added that “you never know” what might happen in the future. The comments came after an attendee asked if Mr. Biden’s former primary rival Sen. Kamala Harris was his top pick for a running mate, the Washington Examiner reported.
“I think Kamala Harris has the capacity to do just about anything, along with a lot of other people,” Mr. Biden said.
Mr. Biden, if elected to the presidency, would be the oldest president in U.S. history and would be 78 years old by Inauguration Day. The former vice president released his medical records in December revealing that he is being treated for an irregular heartbeat and high cholesterol, but his doctor said he is fit enough for office.
