Time to set term limits for Congress?

Monday, February 8th, 2010 at 6:46 pm

There are many incumbent Senators and Representatives whom we do not like and whom we wish to send them off soon. Leaders Harry Reid and Speaker Nancy Pelosi are classic examples of people that have been there for too long to be effective.

For one, I think that the job of being a Congressperson is a sacred one. They are part and parcel of the balance of powers in the our country that makes our political system the best in the whole world. A Senator or a Representative hold tremendous powers and are temples of authority.

However, I do feel that once in a while, there should be some fresh ideas injected. Just like many sports, the length of time would affect an individual’s performance. That is one of the reasons why our President cans serve a maximum of 2 terms and serve a maximum of 10 years.

I think that we should make similar term limits for our Congress as well. My suggestion is to have a 6 year term for both the House and the Senate and to limit it to 3 terms and allow people to serve a maximum of 20 years in Congress.

Here is my first reason. I think it is absolutely ridiculous that elections for Representatives take place every 2 years. Not only is it irritating, but I really do not see what one can accomplish in merely 2 years? There is nothing really much that can happen. To me, it is just a waste of the state’s treasury to hold elections ever so frequently. I agree with Governor Jesse Ventura’s idea of only having elections on even numbered years to save money. I am also open to Representatives serving a maximum 5 four year terms instead.

Another reason is that with young blood, there comes a new approach to getting things to work. For example, even a wing nut like Senator Al Franken has done some good work when he wrote the “rape bill.” Do you think he would be as productive as he is in his first year? I highly doubt so.

The most important reason though is that this could help stop some corruption. If Senators or Representatives are serving their last terms, they do not need lobbyists help for re-elections. They can serve their terms the way they want it. Also, this removes any complacency amongst some Congresspeople who enjoy safe seats, like Representatives Michelle Bachmann and Barney Frank.

I would like to state that this is just a proposal. I am not in any Tea Party like manner trying to call for a revolution on this topic. I think it is an interesting idea. If you find any cons to this, please highlight it. I want to hear what the thoughts of Americans on this topic. Please comment.