Several measures have already been introduced in the new Congress proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of consecutive terms that a Member of Congress may serve. No person shall serve as a Representative for more than six two-year terms, or a Senator for more than two six-year terms.

Term limits would prevent politicians from making a career out of holding office, thus reducing the entrenchment of long-term incumbents who accumulate significant political power and influence over time. Regular turnover ensures that new people with fresh ideas and perspectives are continuously entering Congress, bringing innovative solutions to the table and breaking the status quo.

Long-serving incumbents are often targeted by special interest groups and lobbyists who seek to influence legislation. Term limits would disrupt these entrenched relationships, making it harder for special interests to exert long-term influence over elected officials. When members of Congress serve for extended periods, they may become more focused on maintaining power, fundraising, and catering to special interests rather than serving their constituents. Term limits could reduce this self-serving behavior.

Some advocates believe term limits would reduce gridlock and hyper-partisanship. Fresh members may be less beholden to party leadership and more open to compromise, as they wouldn’t have long-term party alliances to maintain. Long-serving politicians often perpetuate the same ideological divides and policy gridlock. Bringing in new lawmakers more frequently could inject fresh energy into Congress and break political stagnation.

Many Americans feel disillusioned with politics, believing that Congress is out of touch with everyday concerns. Term limits could help restore faith in government by showing that no one stays in power for too long and that there is room for new leadership. Term limits would reduce the possibility of political dynasties, where the same families or individuals hold power over decades, enhancing the public perception of fairness in government.

Long-serving members of Congress accumulate valuable expertise in governance, policy-making, and the legislative process. This knowledge is crucial for navigating complex issues, and term limits could force out seasoned legislators just as they become most effective. Experienced lawmakers often hold key leadership positions in committees and are crucial in managing the legislative process. With term limits, a constant churn of inexperienced members may weaken the institution’s overall effectiveness.

Critics argue that term limits would shift power away from elected representatives to unelected bureaucrats, lobbyists, and career civil servants. Legislators with less experience may become more reliant on these groups for information and guidance, giving them outsized influence over policy. Experienced members are often better equipped to provide oversight of executive agencies and special interests. Frequent turnover could result in weaker scrutiny of government operations and private sector influences.

Lawmakers in their final term (due to term limits) might be less accountable to voters since they wouldn’t have to face re-election. This could lead to more reckless decision-making or less responsiveness to their constituents' needs. Term limits artificially restrict voters’ ability to elect representatives they trust and prefer. If a member of Congress is serving their constituents well, the argument goes, voters should have the right to re-elect them as many times as they wish. With fewer long-serving members who have established relationships across party lines, term limits may exacerbate partisanship.

Legislators would have less incentive to work with the opposition on long-term projects or build lasting coalitions. Shorter tenures may encourage legislators to prioritize short-term goals and partisan agendas over long-term policy solutions, knowing they have a limited time in office.

Are you in favor of an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of consecutive terms that a Member of Congress may serve?