Want to be prez? Hand over those medical records.

We all know that John McCain has had a few bouts with skin cancer but is doing pretty darn well for 72.

Barack Obama, ex-smoker and Nicorette chewer, is in excellent shape.

Today, we learned that Joe Biden had two aneurysms 20 years ago but is doing well, despite some back pain, sinus problems and nasty allergies.

And Sarah Palin won't spill.

Why do we know all of this anyway? Have candidates historically disclosed their medical records (yes, some)? Or was the norm born out of McCain's age and public battle with melanoma?

I certainly see the point to that argument. The average life expectancy for males in the U.S. is about 75; McCain is 72 (and a three-time cancer survivor); a presidential term is four years...you do the math. And if the president kicks it, the VP is in charge. Lots of people hate the republican VP pick. Again, you see where this is going.

On the other hand, where do we draw the line between the public's right to know and candidates' privacy? Sure, they've decided to become public figures, but a person's medical records are about as personal as you can get.

And who's to say Barack Obama, who has a strong family history of cancer, won't come down with something? Or Sarah Palin, who is apparently in such good health there's nothing in her records worth seeing (...?)--what if she's in a car accident? And who's to say John McCain won't be perfectly healthy for the next decade?

On the first hand again, though, isn't more information better for the people deciding how to cast their vote?

What do you think? Do you think the candidates should offer up their medical records? Are you glad they did?


Thanks for the photo, j.reed.