New research complicates arguments for congressional term limits in the United States
University of Michigan researchers published study findings in the American Journal of Political Science regarding congressional offices and constituent service.
Experienced lawmakers handle more agency work
About half of the average congressional office workload involves helping constituents navigate federal agencies. Experienced members perform more of this task as their offices gain capacity and expertise. This type of work is described by the study lead author as interbranch representation.
Term limit assumptions face new scrutiny
The research challenges the idea that lawmakers become less responsive to constituents over time. Debates about term limits must now account for the steep startup costs of taking over established offices. New members may bring fresh perspectives but require time to get up to speed.
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