Charles T. Canady: “As currently drafted, House Joint Resolution 2 is prospective only. That is, service occurring prior to ratification of…”

“As currently drafted, House Joint Resolution 2 is prospective only. That is, service occurring prior to ratification of the amendment is not counted toward the 6-term limit. It is ironic that for the most part this amendment is held more dear by opponents of term limits than by supporters of term limits. The gentleman from Michigan and the gentleman from Texas have been very candid in expressing their opposition to the concept of term limits. I appreciate their candor on this. But anyone who supports term limits should understand that this amendment is being offered by those who are opposed to term limits. I would ask the Members to consider that fact and to make their judgment accordingly. With this amendment, we are far less likely to have an orderly process of transition in which people can adjust their expectations and move forward. In fact, this amendment that is being offered by the gentleman from Texas and the gentleman from Michigan has the prospect for causing enormous confusion. Now, personally, the adoption of this amendment would not affect me in the least. I have imposed a limit on myself, and I will be gone from here in 4 years. While I am here, however, I am committed to passing term limits and moving to final passage on the measure that I believe can garner the most votes and that can be adopted by the States.”