Age and Term Limits of Elected Officials

Bajaba Q
July 13, 2024
edited January 18, 2026

Introduction

I originally wrote this prior to Joe Biden's stepping down on July 24, 2024 from the presidential race, but I think this is still applicable.

Commentary

I think there is a need for a new Constitutional Amendment addressing the age and terms of our elected officials (and similar ones at the State, County, and City levels).

It would be contain the following 2 clauses:

1. All elected officials of these United States must be less than 75 years old when elected.
2. Representatives and Senators may only serve two consecutive terms, before a required break in service.

There may be better verbiage. I'm trying to say something like: 2 term, break, 2 term break, no limit - except for age, see Clause 1.

This means:

• House
  • age: 25–75
  • service: 2,2,break,2,2,break,...
• Senate
  • age: no lower age–75
  • service: 6,6,break,6,6,break,...
• President
  • age: 35–75
  • service: 4,4, done or 4,break, 4, done - per the 22^nd amendment

Similar verbiage should be adopted by State, County, and City (and Home Owners Association, etc.) levels of government.

I think being elected to represent the people is a service and should not be a career. It should be compensated (or not) and limited as such.

I don't believe in age-discrimination for a job (may the most qualified individual win), but for service, particularly in a position where physical and mental acuity are important, limitations are reasonable, (e.g. US military service entrance (17–35)).

Conclusion

As always, constructive thoughts are welcome.