A recent meeting among San Francisco’s Democrats introduced a non-binding proposal that encourages the exploration of mandatory age limits for government representatives at the state and local levels. However, the proposal notably excludes federal representatives, with no specific age requirement suggested for retirement.

Nancy Pelosi’s Influence Not Targeted

Proponent Kingsbury clarified that the proposal is not aimed at prominent figures such as Representative Nancy Pelosi, who is currently 85 years old. Pelosi, while not present at the meeting, was represented by a delegate who voted against the initiative.

Kingsbury stated, “If every politician at 85 were as capable and sharp and had the sort of fierce urgency that she does and is still so tapped into, then we wouldn’t have to have this conversation at all.”

Comparative Policies in Other Professions

Mandatory retirement ages are not common among elected officials but do exist in various professions, including airline pilots, judges in over 30 U.S. states, and certain public safety roles. The proposal highlights the balance between institutional knowledge and public accountability.

Opposition to the Proposal

During the meeting, several party members, including Supervisor Connie Chan, expressed concerns about the potential ageism inherent in such a proposal. Chan emphasized that the quality of a candidate should be prioritized over age, citing the recent election of 78-year-old Barbara Lee as mayor of Oakland as an example of enduring capability linked to experience.

A community member, Cole Bettles, who previously interned for Pelosi, also criticized the proposal’s selective approach, particularly its exclusion of federal officials like Pelosi.

Future Directions for the Proposal

Supporters of the resolution plan to present this concept during the upcoming state Democratic Party convention in May. The initiative is part of a broader strategy from the local party, which has recently shifted towards moderate leadership after progressive members lost several seats last year. Other resolutions being considered include issues such as combating public corruption, enhanced public safety staffing, and improved educational support.

Chan has also committed to opposing the proposal at the state level moving forward.