Pros And Cons Of Term Limits

Term limits are defined as statutory limitations placed on the number of terms that officeholders may serve and are typically specified in a constitution (term limits). In 1947, after president Roosevelt’s death, Congress passed the 22nd amendment establishing presidential term limits and was ratified by the states in 1951 (Ultius). The 22nd amendment to the constitution of the United States declares that the nation’s president cannot be elected to more than two four-year terms (Benjamin). The constitutions of several U.S. states apply similar limits on the terms of the state’s respective governors, however, the limitations vary with each state across the country. Some states have enforced term limit policies while other states have no policy. As with every other law, there are pros and cons to term limits. Individuals in support of term limits claim that society is provided with diverse perspectives in government, and prevents consolidation of power in one person (Ultius). The longer that an individual in power stays in office, the possibility for them to become hungry for power and wealth increases which ultimately corrupts that …show more content…
If congressional term limits are enacted, it will provide individuals deserving of office a chance to serve compared to a political structure which would allow congressmen to run for several terms. A limited term in congress can provide fresh ideas coming from younger politicians with new contributions to compose (Term limits for congress). When official gain seniority, they gain power and become less inclined to make changes, or listen to the suggestions of the younger members (Ultius). There is a varying learning curve and limiting terms is not the best usage of time and analysis as it not only leads to the loss of experience but also to the loss of contacts and associations which assist in accomplishing considerable