Politicians minimum and maximum age requirements

As most people know in the US we have minimum age requirements for elected officials. Clearly this is a beneficial idea to only allow those with sufficient experience and education (not necessarily through formal institutions) to help shape and guide our democracy.

But too often age is used as a weapon against those who seek to aid the public in an elected post. During last years elections I was appalled to hear quips from both sides regarding the political contenders.

Frankly speaking any individual with competent mental facilities is a valid candidate. McCain was not too old to run for President just as Obama was not too young. Rather these two prominent citizens should have been praised for their decisions to run for the highest post in our land. What possible attack can be made on the decision making skills of a younger citizen or older. I've spoken with people my grandparents age (90's +) and that of my youngest cousin (11) who have valid concerns for our country. Yet these are extremes of the principle of the arguments. Too young, too old what does it matter? If an educated decision can be made by the person then they are in the right stage of their lives to run for office.