We have recently see a nationwide movement supporting term limits for Congress. By limiting the number of times a member of Congress can hold office, we can limit career politicians, keep special interest in check, and bring fresh perspectives to our political landscape.

Terms limits will bring much needed political reform such as discouraging long-term political careerism where people holding powerful positions stop doing the work for which they were elected and instead divert all their attention toward retaining office. Term limits are also likely to end the ability of incumbents to shield congressional elections from actual competition. Data suggests that term limits will increase voter choice. An great example can be found in California where the addition of term limits at state level positions in 1990 raised candidate filings for the State Senate in 1992 by more than 25% while the State Assembly saw a 50% increase. 

Term limits of course are primarily opposed by the special-interest groups, especially the labor unions. These groups do not want to lose their investments in incumbent legislators.  Set limits on time in office will put an end to the habit of perpetual fundraising and cozy relationships with lobbyists. 

A limited time period in office should be enough to get something done without losing touch with the voters. Considering the historically low rate of turnover, big electoral advantages exercised by incumbents, increasing threats from special interest groups, and the unique power held by federal legislators, term limits for Congress make a lot of sense and must be implemented as soon as possible in California.