Washington, D.C., April 10, 2025 – Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) introduced a joint resolution today proposing an amendment to the Constitution to implement term limits in Congress. This resolution would limit Senators to two six-year terms and House Members to six two-year terms, limiting either chamber to service of twelve years.
“Our Founding Fathers never imagined that Congress would become an institution filled with career politicians who stay on well past retirement age and Congress shouldn’t be a place where people can get comfortable in their jobs,” Senator McCormick said. “We are extremely grateful for those who have served, for those who are serving, and for those who are willing to serve. At the same time, we need constant change and new blood for our democracy to work and it is my hope that this resolution can help Washington begin to work again for the American people.”
Notably, McCormick’s resolution would not apply to any person who was in office prior to the 118th Congress. This resolution mirrors the one introduced in the House by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).
“Elected office was never meant to be a lifetime position—it’s a calling to serve, not a career to keep. That’s why, since my first day in Congress, I’ve introduced legislation to establish term limits and return accountability to public service,” said Representative Fitzpatrick. “Term limits are a common-sense reform to curb careerism, restore accountability, and realign our government with the citizen-led model our Founders envisioned. I’m grateful Senator McCormick is joining me in this effort—because it’s time to rebuild trust, return power to the people, and ensure Washington can begin to work again for the American people.”
Elected office has become an increasingly popular career choice rather than a temporary service. More than one-third of Senators in the 118th Congress were 70 or older. The 119th Congress is the third oldest in history. The average Senator is nearly 64 years old, which is 11 years older than the average Senator in 1981. Similarly, the House Members are nearly nine years older on average than they were in 1981. As of this year, Members of the House and Senate have an average of 8.6 and 11.2 years of prior service in their respective chambers. This represents a steady increase from the early 20th century when that number fell below six years for both the House and Senate.
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