A key to this the fact that “journalism” has shifted the focus of political narratives (which they’ve always largely created) from “government/leadership” to “popularity/perception.” Both have always been part of the story, but in this century the coverage of government has diminished in comparison to popularity. These stories on Biden’s age don’t ever talk about the consequences of electing an old man. How would him slowing down change what his administration is doing? How would it affect the country? How does that compare to the effects of electing a slightly younger, also cognitively declining fascist? This is particularly true when it comes to something Mekka has pointed out repeatedly - Harris. One of the reasons for Biden being the head of the ticket is the dubious assumption that Harris is unelectable - a narrative the media has created. Racism and misogyny run deep in this country, but I recall Harris being on the ticket as one of the reasons it was acceptable to vote for the old white guy in 2020. That’s the perception story. The governing story is that Harris is part of a successful team that can continue with the current policy agenda that has been largely successful (yes there is lots to criticize, lots).