Congrats to all Members-elect of Congress for being a signer of the U.S. Term Limits Pledge! As the spirited 2020 election winds down and we look toward the future, we must find a way to bring Americans together.
According to a recent Pew survey, just 20% of U.S. adults say they trust leaders in Washington to do the right thing all or most of the time. That is near historic lows. But in this era of diminished confidence — with reports saying we’re more divided than ever — there is still one issue people of all ideologies agree on: term limits for Congress.
Congressional term limits have 82% support from the public, including backing from 89% of Republicans, 76% of Democrats and 83% of independent voters. It is far and away the most bipartisan issue in America. It is the issue that can bring people together and restore trust in government.
By signing our pledge, Congressmen and Congresswomen committed to cosponsor and vote for a constitutional amendment limiting House members to 6 years and senators to 12, and no longer limit. Remember, our pledge is not a self-limit. It takes no position on how many terms you serve prior to enacting the amendment, a process which takes years. We understand that seniority is a key factor in today’s Congress and believe it should be used effectively. That is why we oppose self-term limits and welcome all supporters of this amendment, regardless of how long they’ve already been in public service.
When Congress convenes in January, I encourage you to not only be a cosponsor of term limits but a champion! Discuss this issue often with fellow lawmakers and in the media. Join the Congressional Term Limits Caucus. Help us bring more Democratic and Republican cosponsors on board. Ask your leadership team to hold hearings on the topic.
Together we can make this happen. We can deliver on the most bipartisan issue in America, and we can do it with leadership.
Thank you again,
Nick Tomboulides
Executive Director