Daniel Santiago 11/10/2017 Dr.Strathman Composition 1/ P.7 Congressional Terms: Should Limits Be Established? Term limits have support of a majority of Americans. The cost of funding a campaign against incumbents is becoming increasingly more expensive, making it harder for good candidates to unseat incumbents. They would prevent legislators from becoming professional politicians. Representatives would be more inclined to do what is right for their constituencies and the country, as opposed to what is popular. Longer-serving representatives would be prevented from accumulating a disproportionate amount of power through seniority. Limits Corruption: The power and influence gained by being a member of Congress for a long period of time tempt lawmakers to base their votes and policies on their own self-interest, instead of those of the people. Term limits would help prevent corruption and reduce the influence of special interests. Congress – It’s Not a Job: Being a member of Congress should not become the office-holder's career. People who choose to serve in Congress should do so for noble reasons …show more content…
This argument is based in the notion that incoming legislators will be entirely unqualified for their jobs and will be easily led astray by staff, bureaucrats, special interests, etc. The way the system works today suggests that the real problem is in longevity of office and the complacency that can come along with it. For instance, lobbyists invest heavily in long-term relationships with sitting legislators. Congress members currently shirk many responsibilities by delegating them to bureaucratic agencies. Term limits have the potential to greatly reduce these problems. When more Congressional races are won by challengers from outside the Beltway, this change is likely to bring new staffers with new ideas into Washington, rather than recycling the same old corrupt insiders. Term limits are