WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) has introduced a joint resolution to amend the Constitution, proposing term limits for members of Congress. Announced on Thursday, April 10, the resolution seeks to curb careerism within the legislative branch by limiting service to 12 years. Senators would be restricted to two six-year terms, while House members could serve up to six two-year terms.
“Our Founding Fathers never imagined that Congress would become an institution filled with career politicians who stay on well past retirement age,” Senator McCormick remarked. “We need constant change and new blood for our democracy to work, and it is my hope that this resolution can help Washington begin to work again for the American people.”
The resolution, however, exempts individuals serving prior to the 118th Congress. It echoes a similar measure introduced in the House by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01). Fitzpatrick has championed term limits since his first day in office, advocating for reforms to “curb careerism, restore accountability, and realign our government with the citizen-led model our Founders envisioned.”
McCormick’s proposal comes amid growing scrutiny of Congress’ aging demographic. With over one-third of Senators in the 118th Congress being 70 or older, and the 119th Congress ranking as the third oldest in history, concerns have risen over the extension of political careers. The average Senator and Representative now have 11.2 and 8.6 years of prior service, respectively, marking a steady increase compared to the early 20th century.
If adopted, the resolution promises to reshape the landscape of American public service by fostering leadership turnover and advancing the principles of accountability and representation.
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