Without making it about any individual, the Democrats' leadership decisions suggest a profound fear of what would happen if new blood could circulate, if young people took more prominent roles. And as someone who has met many young people, I say they have nothing to be afraid of.

When you're sitting at the table, and there's a long line of people waiting for a seat, and the people in that line belong to the most diverse and justice-minded generation in American history, you may want to hurry up and give them a seat. Don't be scared!

And let me preempt this once and for all: The only ageism here is on the part of those who insist that only people from one narrow 20-year generational band should have any leadership role in the United States of America. I am for people of all generations having a role.

The most pernicious form of ageism in politics is the contempt for the capacity of anyone under 65. It has got to end.

And the people in those roles are elected. They have the right to make this decision for themselves. It's just that, to me, they seem scared to let go. And I want to reassure them that, if they decide to make room, young people have got this. Don't fear.

In many cultures, the way young people pay their thanks and show their respect is to take over and care for their elders. If we create a culture where we expect our leaders to work and lead right into their last minutes, we leave no space for them to be honored and tended.

Many of our leaders deserve to put their feet up. Deserve to watch their legacy built on and taken in new ways. Don't deprive your children and grandchildren of the chance to honor you by taking a turn at the wheel.