Addressing a spirited rally for nearly two hours on Saturday night, former President Donald Trump, 77, emphasized that, in his view, President Joe Biden’s age is not the primary concern; rather, it is Biden’s perceived incompetence. Speaking to a crowd at Southern New Hampshire University’s filled hockey arena, Trump asserted, “I feel my mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago — is that possible?“

Trump went on to highlight his cognitive abilities, stating that he successfully completed a cognitive test last year, similar to one he claimed to have taken while in the White House. He humorously noted, “No, I’ll let you know when I go bad. I really think I’ll be able to tell you because someday we go bad.“ Criticizing fellow Republicans, Trump took aim at GOP primary rivals, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida and former Governor Nikki Haley of South Carolina, who had discouraged voters from supporting Trump’s potential return to the White House due to his age.

Dismissing concerns about his age, Trump quipped, “Well, I don’t mind being 80, but I’m 77. That’s a big difference.“ Emphasizing that age is just a number, he underscored that cognitive abilities and a sharp mind are the true indicators of capability. Trump shared an anecdote about a friend who became a billionaire between the ages of 80 and 90, highlighting that success can manifest at any age.

Throughout his address, Trump repeatedly stressed the importance of a strong speaker with a sharp mind for the presidency, contrasting this with his perception of Biden’s limitations in holding long rallies and delivering extended speeches.

While acknowledging Biden’s age, Trump contended that the real threat to democracy lies in Biden’s alleged gross incompetence. He expressed concern about Biden’s handling of various issues, particularly noting the perceived risk of World War III under Biden’s leadership. Trump concluded, “That’s the biggest threat that we have to democracy. We’re going to end up in World War III with this guy running things.“