How would we cognitively test politicians?

Recent episodes involving two of the upper chamber’s oldest senators have led to questions about whether the lawmakers are able to carry out their duties effectively and prompted renewed calls for politicians to undergo cognitive exams.

The highest profile of the incidents occurred when Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 81, suddenly stopped speaking during last week’s Republican leadership news conference, appearing to freeze for nearly 20 seconds before being ushered away by other senators.