Two Terms or not Two Terms

 Presidential Terms and Tenure: Perspectives and Proposals for Change

(Los Angeles Times photo illustration; Associated Press photos)

What’s Changing?

The U.S. presidency operates under term limits set by the Twenty-Second Amendment, which restricts any individual from being elected president more than twice. However, debates persist over whether a former two-term president could return to office through other means, such as serving as Vice President or assuming the presidency through the line of succession. With increasing political polarization and discussions on the effectiveness of presidential tenure, some are questioning whether the current system best serves the country’s needs.

Additionally, a question arises: Could a sitting president issue an executive declaration challenging or redefining these limitations? While the Constitution clearly outlines the term limit, executive power has been tested and expanded in various ways throughout history. A president who argues that national stability or security requires continuity of leadership might attempt to push the boundaries of constitutional interpretation, leading to a legal and political showdown.

Best & Worst-Case Scenarios

• Best Case: The current structure ensures a stable transfer of power and prevents the long-term consolidation of executive authority, preserving the democratic foundation of the U.S. government.

• Worst Case: The term limit could be exploited or circumvented, allowing a popular two-term president to regain power in an unofficial capacity, raising constitutional questions and potential legal battles.

• Gray Area: A sitting president could attempt to use executive authority to challenge the term limit, leading to Supreme Court intervention, congressional pushback, or even a constitutional crisis.

Reader’s Take: Should presidential term limits remain untouched, or do you think they should be reconsidered in specific situations? Would a longer tenure provide stability, or does it risk undermining democracy? How would you react if a sitting president attempted to challenge these limits through executive action?

How This Affects You

The question of presidential tenure impacts the entire political landscape. If changes to term limits or succession rules were made, it could mean longer presidencies, extended policy influence, and shifts in how executive power is checked. Some argue that a successful former president should be allowed to serve again if the public desires it, while others believe term limits prevent authoritarian drift.

Would you support a former president returning through an alternative path, such as serving as Speaker of the House or being appointed Vice President? Or do you believe term limits should be more restrictive to prevent potential power grabs?

Furthermore, should a sitting president be able to declare an emergency or issue an order challenging the Twenty-Second Amendment? If so, who should have the authority to intervene or uphold such a decision?

Reader’s Take: How would you feel if a president you strongly supported attempted to challenge term limits? Would your opinion change if it were a president you opposed? Do term limits strengthen or weaken democracy, in your view? Share your thoughts on how this debate impacts everyday citizens.

Political & Industry Response

Legal scholars remain divided on whether a former two-term president could serve in other executive roles, such as Speaker of the House or a Cabinet position, potentially allowing them to assume the presidency through the order of succession.

Some lawmakers and political analysts suggest that the system should be re-evaluated, particularly in light of growing concerns about political dynasties and the role of experience in leadership. Others counter that any change could undermine the principles of limited government and accountability.

A major point of contention is whether a president could use emergency powers or executive orders to extend their tenure. While this would likely face immediate legal challenges, the mere attempt could shift public discourse and spark a constitutional crisis. How would Congress, the Supreme Court, and the public respond to such an unprecedented action?

Reader’s Take: If legal scholars and politicians remain divided on the issue, where do you stand? Would Congress take proactive steps to clarify succession rules, or would any change open the door to abuse? What role should the judiciary play in interpreting executive authority on term limits?

What to Watch Next

• Potential legal challenges if a former president were to be elected Vice President or assume a role in the presidential line of succession.

• Legislative efforts to clarify or modify the Twenty-Second Amendment.

• Public opinion shifts on presidential term limits amid growing political divisions.

• Executive actions or legal interpretations that could challenge or redefine presidential tenure.

• Judicial rulings on whether a president could use emergency powers to extend their time in office.

Should the U.S. rethink presidential term limits? Could an executive declaration override existing limitations? What alternative system would best balance experience with fresh leadership? Let us know your thoughts!