Term Limits are a HOT topic

Term limits are a HOT topic in the United States. In a 2016 survey, 82% of the voters agreed with the statement “Because there are no term limits Members of Congress stay in office too long.”

It is widely believed that when politicians stay in office too long, they become ineffective and potentially corrupt. Term limits are supported by a wide range of demographics in the United States. Private citizens have voiced their strong support for term limits to keep Congress honest and working ‘for the people’ and not special interest groups, particularly Labor Unions. They are generally opposed by career politicians and special interest groups which depend on the loyalty of politicians.

Republicans, Democrats, and Independents all support term limits which would bring new perspectives and effectiveness to Congress. This would mandate frequent turnover in Congress and prevent wasteful spending by career politicians. Term limits are needed at all levels of government; they are a necessary corrective to inequalities. The opponents of term limits are the incumbent politicians and the special interest groups that support them and want to protect their investment.

Term limits — a reality check

Term limits secure congress’ independent judgment and serves as a reality check providing reminders of what real life is like. Term limits would restore respect to Congress and provide a way to reinvigorate the government with fresh ideas. Currently, career politicians are believed to undermind the public interest by supporting special interest groups which would be vastly diminished by term limits.

A Senate term is six years long, so senators may choose to run for reelection every six years unless they are appointed or elected in a special election to serve the remainder of a term. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives serve two-year terms. All 435 members get elected every midterm and presidential election year.

Congress DOES NOT have the power

to amend the Constitution.

Congress DOES have the power

to propose the amendment

to the people and the States.

The vote on term limits is simply that: a vote to allow the people, through their representatives, to decide on term limits.

There are a total of 535 Members of Congress

100 serve in the U.S. Senate
435 serve in the U.S. House of Representatives

In May 1995, the U.S. Supreme

Court ruled 5–4 in U.S. Term Limits

In the case, Inc. v. Thornton, 514 U.S. 779 (1995)

The ruling that states cannot impose term limits

upon their federal Representatives or Senators.

In a 2016 survey, 82% of the voters agreed with the statement -- Because there are no term limits Members of Congress stay in office too long. Share on X