Speak Out!

Back in the 1990s, term limits were touted as a way to reform government, and cities, towns and some 15 states enacted limits for their legislators. Recently, the idea is being revisited—a topic covered by a USA Today op-ed debate:

It's easy to see how term limits became so popular. The public wanted a quick fix to rid government of entrenched incumbents who get too close to lobbyists and too far from voters. But a 2006 study by the National Conference of State Legislatures adds more reasons that term limits aren't the answer. It found that term-limited rookies focus on short-term gains and are less willing to compromise or build consensus. Fledgling legislators also make weak sparring partners for expert agency officials and governors, so the branch that best represents the people grows weaker.

In his opposing view, Howard Rich, of the advocacy group U.S. Term Limits, says:

Put simply, citizens value fresh ideas, new perspectives and more competitive elections more than the so-called institutional knowledge of the political ruling class.

Are you for or against legislator term limits?