Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez Pushes for Cognitive Testing in Congress

Addressing Cognitive Decline in Congress

Democratic Washington Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is advocating for measures to tackle cognitive decline in Congress. Her initiative is gaining traction among both liberals and conservatives who are concerned about the aging political class in Washington.

“In every job I’ve ever had, there’s a simple expectation. You actually have to be able to do the work. Either you can do it or you can’t. And Congress shouldn’t be any different,” stated the congresswoman in a video posted to X on Monday.

Gluesenkamp Perez introduced an amendment to the FY27 Legislative Branch Appropriations bill in May. It aimed at requiring the development of a standard that defines conduct not reflecting creditably upon the House, particularly in relation to significant irreversible cognitive impairment affecting a member’s ability to perform their duties. This amendment was dismissed by voice vote.

Reactions and Support

Despite the amendment’s rejection, the congresswoman remains committed to addressing what she terms as “gerontocracy,” referring to the rule by the elderly. Social media reactions suggest she has supporters across party lines.

Republican Daniel Miressi, who is running for Connecticut’s 4th Congressional District, expressed agreement with Gluesenkamp Perez. Additionally, an anonymous right-wing X account commented on the necessity for mandatory cognitive testing for politicians.

Criticism also emerged from the right, with some arguing that issues like congressional stock trading bans should take precedence over other matters.

Concerns About Aging Lawmakers

Gluesenkamp Perez has previously criticized the impact of an aging political class remaining in office despite cognitive decline. The late Dianne Feinstein, whose health and mental faculties became a concern for Democrats before her death in 2023, often serves as a reference point in this debate.

Her proposal attracted bipartisan support and invited criticism from various quarters. Mason Pressler, a school board member and organizer for Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, suggested that the emphasis was on promoting a younger generation of politicians aligned with corporate interests.

Calls for Broader Focus

Some conservatives believe Gluesenkamp Perez’s approach doesn’t address the fundamental issues, such as entitlement programs that could jeopardize fiscal stability.

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has previously called on President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race due to health and age concerns. Despite her criticisms, she does advocate for elderly members serving in Congress as long as they are mentally fit.

Fox News Digital reached out for comments from Gluesenkamp Perez, but there has been no response from her office.