- United States
- Pa.
- Letter
Vote NO on Changes to the 22nd Amendment
To: Rep. Mackenzie
From: A constituent in Allentown, PA
January 29
Proposing to amend the 22nd Amendment to allow a president to serve more than two elected terms represents a significant departure from long-standing democratic principles and norms. The amendment establishing presidential term limits was ratified in 1951 with the aim of preventing any future president from accumulating excessive power through extended tenure in office. Upholding these term limits helps preserve the regular transfer of power and reinforces the foundational principles of our democratic system. While I understand the reasoning behind the proposed amendment may be to provide continuity of leadership, extending any single individual's time in the nation's highest office beyond two terms risks consolidating power in a way that could undermine crucial checks and balances. Our Constitution was carefully designed to prevent any branch from becoming too powerful or entrenched. I urge you to carefully consider preserving the 22nd Amendment and the democratic traditions it upholds. Exploring ways to ensure a smooth transition of power while adhering to established term limits would better serve the long-term health of our political system. Maintaining robust civic norms and respecting the will of the people through regular elections should be paramount. I encourage an approach that reinforces democratic values rather than granting extended terms to any one leader.