The Rev. Louis Phillips (“Dying in office does not benefit your constituency“, Jan. 29) makes a common mistake when using mortality tables to compare the life expectancies of President Biden and Donald Trump.

He correctly points out that the tables provide averages and, in fact, those tables are used properly to calculate life insurance premiums for large groups. For example, employees with life insurance benefits typically are covered automatically, whereas individuals applying for life insurance typically must undergo lab testing and a physical exam. The tests and exams allow the insurer to adjust average mortality rates based on the applicant’s health status.

I wonder whether MetLife or Prudential would charge a higher premium for Joe Biden or Donald Trump for the same $1 million life insurance policy?

William Rosenberg

Mount Vernon