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94-year-old legislator aims to 'whup this woman,' win re-election

Rep. John Yates (R-Griffin) is America's oldest legislator.  He's locked in a tough fight to win a primary runoff with GOP activist Karen Mathiak. 

Georgia Rep. John Yates (R-Griffin), age 94

GRIFFIN, GA -- At age 94, Rep. John Yates (R-Griffin) is fighting for his political life. GOP voters in House district 73 forced him into a runoff with his opponent, GOP activist Karen Mathiak.

Yates is the oldest state legislator in America, according to the National Council of State Legislatures. He is chairman of the House Veterans Affairs committee, a World War II veteran, and began his career at the state capitol at age 71.

Here's an excerpt from 11Alive's interview with him:

11Alive: Is it reasonable for people to ask you why, at age 94, you would continue to run for office?

Rep. John Yates: No, because they all realize that there’s nobody in the legislature in better health than I am…. I hate to brag but I think I’m the most respected guy in the legislature. At least people tell me that.

Q: Do you campaign door to door still?

A: No, not now. The district is too big.

Q: Do you feel like you’re still in touch with your constituents, including your younger constituents?

A: I’m better in touch than anybody younger than me. I’m pretty (perceptive). I can look around and see what’s going on.

Q: What year was your father born?

A: Let’s see. Four years after the Civil War. What would that be?

Q: 1869.

A: Yeah.

Q: Your dad was born in 1869?

A: Yeah.

Q: Are you as sharp mentally as you’ve always been?

A: I think so. Some of my opponents probably would point out that I’m not, but I don’t know what they would base it on.

Q: If you are re-elected, you would retire from the legislature at age 97.

A: I don’t know whether that’s the oldest in the history of the nation or whatever (laughs).

Q: So you want to serve one more term in the legislature, retire at age 97.

A: That’s what I’m trying to try to do if I can whup this woman… I’m not doing it hold a job forever. I don’t think the job belongs to me.

Q: 97 would be pretty close to forever if you get reelected right?

A: Well, I started late!

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