1989-1990 Harry Singer Foundation National Essay Contest
Should Terms of Those Serving In The House of
Representatives Be Limited? Why, How or Why Not?
Teacher:
Lutheran High School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
1st Carole Schaeffer
2nd Kate
Kitzmann 3rd Rachel Bickel
"Term limits would make it possible for leadership positions to
change hands more often, and therefore producing leaders who are more aware of new and
important issues facing Congress."
Unidentified Student, Lutheran High School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
"My faith in politics is near extinction. All too often I hear of
deceitful dealings, an improper financial handling by Presidential hopefuls, Senators and
Representatives. I think that there ought to be a limit on the number of terms that
Representatives may serve because the scandals seem to be brought on by Representatives
who have been in the House too long. By limiting terms, we are sending a clear message to
all Representatives that we mean business. No longer will we tolerate inequitable
representation."
Unidentified Student, Lutheran High School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
"In short, I believe that the following ought to be enforced in the
House of Representatives: 1. Require full disclosure of the member's financial holdings
and income, his influence on executive branch departments and regulatory agencies. 2.
Require full disclosure of the member's donation sources. 3. A limited amount of money
that can be spent on campaign efforts and a ban on donations from lobbying comopanies and
organizations. 4. A limited term of two four year terms. 5. A system of checks and
balances where constituents report on the positions and actions representatives are
taking."
Unidentified Student, Lutheran High School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
"In every election since 1960, the House has moved further away from
the people. The House of Representatives is no longer a cradle of democracy, but an
impenetrable chamber of professional legislators."
Unidentified Student, Lutheran High School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
"If they lose their job as a representative, their next job is a step
downward. In order to please as many voters as possible, congressmen take very lukewarm
positions on most topics. They are scared to have strong opinions which may offend
voters."
Unidentified Student, Lutheran High School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
"Most people don't know what their Representative is doing, but they
ought to know. People need to be better educated about how the government runs. . . The
voters of America should not be blind to what is going on in our couontry, especially
about those topics which could influence their lives. If people were more educated about
politics, there would also be more qualified citizens voting."
Unidentified Student, Lutheran High School, Minneapolis, Minnesota