A new push for congressional term limits is gaining momentum as Republican lawmakers, led by Congressman Ralph Norman (R-SC) and U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), have introduced a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the number of terms members of Congress can serve.
The amendment seeks to limit U.S. senators to two six-year terms and U.S. House members to three two-year terms. If passed by Congress and ratified by the states, the amendment would go into effect within seven years of its submission. Under the proposal, individuals who have served the maximum terms would no longer be eligible for reelection or appointment to their respective chambers.
Supporters of the amendment argue that term limits would address concerns about career politicians, reduce special interest influence, and encourage fresh perspectives in governance. They emphasize the importance of fostering a legislature more accountable to the American people and aligned with the Founding Fathers’ vision of citizen legislators.
Senate and House Advocates
The resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by several prominent Republicans, including Senators Mike Lee of Utah, Rick Scott of Florida, Rand Paul of Kentucky, and Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, among others. Congressman Ralph Norman, representing South Carolina’s 5th District, introduced the resolution in the House, emphasizing the need for Congress to operate as a temporary public service rather than a lifelong career.
Norman and other proponents believe term limits would restore trust in government and enhance legislative efficiency by curbing the influence of entrenched politicians.
Previous Efforts and Challenges
This is not the first time Senator Cruz has pushed for term limits. Similar resolutions were introduced in 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023, but none successfully advanced through Congress. Amending the Constitution remains a formidable challenge, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate, followed by ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures, or 38 out of 50 states. Alternatively, a constitutional convention called by two-thirds of state legislatures could propose an amendment, though this method has never been used in U.S. history.
To date, all 27 amendments to the Constitution have been passed by Congress and ratified by the states, with the most recent amendment occurring in 1992.
Local and National Impact
The proposed amendment has garnered attention nationwide, with advocates arguing it would reduce gridlock and foster a government more representative of the American electorate. Critics, however, caution against limiting voter choice and losing experienced legislators who can navigate complex legislative processes.
Congressman Norman’s sponsorship highlights the growing support for term limits among South Carolina’s constituents, reflecting broader concerns about accountability and transparency in Washington.
As the resolution moves forward, its success will depend on garnering bipartisan support in a deeply divided Congress and convincing state legislatures to prioritize ratification. While the path to constitutional change is steep, the growing movement for term limits signals a continued push for structural reform in the nation’s capital.
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