Democratic Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez from Washington is advocating for cognitive assessments in Congress. This initiative unites both liberals and conservatives who are concerned about the aging political class in Washington.
In a video posted on a social media platform, the congresswoman stated, “In every job I’ve ever had, there’s a simple expectation. You have to be able to do the work. Either you can do it or you can’t. Congress shouldn’t be any different.”
In May, Gluesenkamp Perez proposed an amendment to the FY27 Legislative Branch Appropriations bill. This amendment sought to mandate the Office of Congressional Conduct to define conduct that does not reflect creditably upon the House. It specifically addressed the need for members of Congress to perform their duties without being hindered by significant, irreversible cognitive impairment. However, the amendment failed in a voice vote.
The congresswoman persists in her fight against what she describes as the “gerontocracy,” a term denoting rule by the elderly. Her views have found resonance across the political divide. Daniel Miressi, a Republican candidate from Connecticut, expressed agreement with her stance. An anonymous right-wing account also supported the idea of mandatory cognitive testing for politicians, calling it overdue.
Some on the right wish their party would concentrate more on issues such as this rather than other focal points. For instance, Bradley Jaye, a political editor, expressed that Republicans in swing districts could advocate for such issues instead of concentrating on immigration policies.
Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez has long criticized the impact of an aging political class that remains in office despite cognitive decline. She has voiced concerns about the erosion of public trust when elderly lawmakers refuse to step down despite mental fitness issues. The late Senator Dianne Feinstein, whose health was a concern before her death in 2023, often comes up in these discussions.
While Gluesenkamp Perez’s proposal has gained bipartisan support, it has also faced criticism. Mason Pressler, linked with a Senate candidate, suggested that some Democrats prefer younger corporate-aligned politicians.
Others, like conservative commentator Richard Hanania, argue that the proposal does not address broader fiscal challenges such as Social Security and Medicare, suggesting the effort is insufficient.
In 2024, Gluesenkamp Perez made news by calling for President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race due to concerns over his health and age following a poorly received debate performance.
Despite her initiatives, Gluesenkamp Perez does not oppose elderly representation in Congress generally, only when mental capability is compromised. She stated in a 2025 interview that members of Congress should understand the health care questions older people face as this strengthens the legislative body.
Gluesenkamp Perez’s office has not commented further on the issue.