So Joe Biden might stay for eight years

I think for the first time Joe Biden has said he is fully prepared to serve two terms - the full eight years - if he is elected president in November. By which time he would be in his mid-80s. He is currently 77 and his next birthday is November 20. That's a bit of a blow to Kamala Harris, his running-mate, who I bet thought to herself that if Biden does just one term she will slot in nicely for the job in 2024. Also, the thought of being vice president for eight years rather than four years probably doesn't ound quite such fun. But then Biden did it and now look where he is. The big question is whether a man in his 80s is a sensible age for being the president of the United States. A lot of people seem to be implying, if not saying outright, that Biden already has his forgetful moments, suggesting that by 2024 and beyond he might be totally gaga. Well these days when fit older people look pretty damn good and young for their age I reckon dear old Joe (you see, I'm doing it now!) will take it in his stride. And if he does find it too much after four years, one hopes he and/or his wife Jill will make the decision to hand over the reins. In any event, making an announcement now that he is definitely going to be a one-term president would be disastrous politically for him personally and bad news for the Democratic Party which would have to accept that they are pitting their nominee against the incumbent president who is desperate to serve for eight years. So his remark during an interview that he is ready to serve for two terms is a good move on his part. But it won't remove the concerns over whether he has the staying power to last eight years and it will give Trump and co some fun over the next few weeks.