Maxine Waters defended the idea that voters, rather than age restrictions, should determine whether elected officials remain in office during a Capitol Hill interview on Thursday. When questioned about whether lawmakers should face mandatory age limits, Waters argued that the public should judge leaders based on their accomplishments, effectiveness, and overall performance instead of their age.
She encouraged voters to evaluate each candidate by examining their record, contributions, and leadership qualities before making a decision at the ballot box. Asked whether performance should matter more than age, Waters agreed, saying effectiveness is what truly counts.
The discussion later turned to President Donald Trump. Rather than addressing whether an older president might be too old to serve, Waters criticized Trump’s leadership, accusing him of weakening democratic institutions, failing to fulfill campaign promises, and pursuing policies that she claimed benefited himself and his family, including through cryptocurrency ventures.
When pressed repeatedly on whether the presidency should have an upper age limit—even in the case of a hypothetical 100-year-old candidate—Waters maintained that voters alone should decide who is qualified to serve.
At 87, Waters is among the oldest members of Congress and is seeking another term representing South Los Angeles. She faces a Democratic primary challenge from 53-year-old nonprofit executive Myla Rahman, who argues that the district is ready for a new generation of leadership. Rahman has emphasized her connection to younger residents, citing shared experiences with housing costs, raising children, and everyday financial concerns.
Waters, however, believes her decades of public service, experience, and continued energy make her the strongest candidate. She has argued that Democratic voters should select candidates based on their work, relationships, and commitment to the community rather than focusing on age alone. She continues to campaign on her long record of public service and legislative experience.
