A View from the Cheap Seats: Exploring Constitutional Amendments and Term Limits

The Need for Change in Politics

If there is ever a time to explore constitutional amendments regarding term limits, now may be that time. The division between Republicans and Democrats has become untenable in today's political landscape. Currently, 16 states have term limits for state legislators () and 37 states impose term limits for governors (*).

The sad reality is that members of both the House and Senate spend 85-90% of their time talking with donors. They solicit the funds necessary to secure their re-election. It seems their primary concern is staying in office and maintaining power. They have twisted the narrative of who they serve. Instead of focusing on the citizens who voted them into office, they prioritize pleasing large donors and super PACs. (The topic of campaign reform and eliminating PACs will be another discussion.)

The Founders’ Vision

I don’t believe the founders and authors of our Constitution envisioned or wanted career politicians, even though many were themselves. They wanted individuals who were genuinely interested in serving their country and resolving the issues of their neighbors. Most early legislators had businesses, farms, and trades to oversee for their families. In our current political system, that is no longer the case. It seems people enter politics for financial gain instead of serving their constituents.

Encouraging Public Service

I don’t want to dissuade anyone from pursuing a path in politics or public service if their true motivation is to improve life for every American, not just those who share their political beliefs. In fact, I believe there is a logical way to approach this.

Imagine if all states had legislative term limits. A person passionate about serving could enter and win a local race for city council. They might then campaign and win a seat in their state legislature. The term limits for state legislators vary by state, but the average is roughly 10 years. After serving, they could transition to the US House of Representatives or the US Senate.

If, for example, term limits were set at a combined total of 12 years—whether as a Representative, a Senator, or a combination of both—this could allow for a potential 22-year career in politics. I would also argue for a mandatory age limit, preventing politicians from running for office or re-election after reaching 70 years old.

Addressing Additional Concerns

There are many other factors to consider with a proposal like this, such as retirement pay and health benefits. However, I believe there are opportunities to solve these fiscal issues in a more beneficial and budget-friendly way than we currently have.

In conclusion, the current political climate calls for a reevaluation of our system. By implementing term limits and encouraging genuine public service, we can foster a political environment that truly serves the people.

I’m R. Simon Kent, and that is My View from the Cheap Seats.

As of January 1, 2024, the number of states with legislative term limits is 16. They are Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, and South Dakota

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, West Virginia, Indiana, Wyoming, Oregon, Montana, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma.