Rethinking Term Limits

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“Throw the bums out.” It was the phrase heard echoing through city halls a decade ago when frustrated voters decided to put an end to career politicians. Term limits, they said, would make lawmakers more accountable. Out with chummy relationships between lawmakers and lobbyists. In with more representative government, people who want to serve and then go back to the “real” world.

However, now that some long-time legislators are being shown the door, critics are trying to overturn term limit laws, saying that they are bringing chaos and gridlock to city halls and statehouses, creating a game of musical chairs where the names and faces change, but where nothing gets done, and voters lose out. Age before duty: the debate over term limits, accountability and incumbency.

Guests:

Patrick Basham, senior fellow, Cato Institute

and TBA.