As I Say, Not As I Do

Cruz pushes for a limit of two terms in Senate while running for a third

Last month, Texas Republican U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, along with U.S. Rep Ralph Norman, R-S.C., Introduced a proposed Constitutional amendment to put terms limits on Congress.

“Term limits are critical to fixing what’s wrong with Washington, DC. The Founding Fathers envisioned a government of citizen legislators who would serve for a few years and return home, not a government run by a small group of special interests and lifelong, permanently entrenched politicians who prey upon the brokenness of Washington to govern in a manner that is totally unaccountable to the American people,” Cruz explained in a statement.

The proposals would limit senators to two sixyear terms and representatives to three two-year terms.

This is the fourth time Cruz has introduced the proposed amendment. So you might assume he is committed to term limits for Congress.

Well, maybe for others. In the future. For himself? Not so much.

Cruz has already announced his intention to seek a third Senate term in 2024. And even if the House and Senate adopt the proposed amendment — which is highly unlikely — those currently serving are grandfathered in. No matter how long they have been in office, Senators would still have another two terms and House members another three after the amendment becomes law.

We like the idea of Congressional term limits. And if Cruz is serious, maybe he should be satisfied with two and show the courage of his convictions. But apparently the senator from Texas doesn’t consider himself part of that “a small group of special interests and lifelong, permanently entrenched politicians.” Or maybe he just wants more time to join their ranks.