Marketplace All-in-One Is the U.S. a gerontocracy?
Dec 4, 2025
Economist Owen Zidar from Princeton University dives into the age dynamics of the U.S. Congress, highlighting how its growing seniority creates a 'gerontocracy.' He explains how generational wealth gaps have emerged, particularly disadvantaging younger Americans. Zidar argues that federal policies skew towards older citizens, impacting everything from housing to education. He suggests reforms like campaign finance changes to help younger voices be heard. Ultimately, he warns that neglecting youth investments threatens future growth and innovation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Congress Is Much Older Than The Country
- The 119th Congress skews much older than the U.S. population, with median ages 58 in the House and 65 in the Senate compared to a national median of 38.
- Owen Zidar ties this age gap to a broader generational wealth divide where baby boomers hold far more wealth than younger cohorts.
Kids Face Higher Poverty Than Elderly
- Owen Zidar points out U.S. child poverty exceeds elderly poverty because of unequal program priorities and social safety nets.
- He illustrates real-life outcomes like drops in marriage and homeownership rates for young parents over decades.
Federal Spending Skews Toward Older People
- Federal spending heavily favors older Americans: roughly $5 for older Americans for every dollar spent on children, according to work cited by Owen Zidar.
- Zidar argues this is inefficient because investments in children yield large long-term social and economic returns.
