I don’t want to be a congressman. I have to be one because I see the effect congress has on my family and my clients. Our congress is out of control and we need to reform it. Instead of being populated by successful citizens who find it a privilege to serve, we are oppressed by career opportunists. Sure they got into politics to make a positive change, but over time, absolute power corrupts absolutely. Congress needs to be held in check.
I propose term limits of twelve years. This allows a House Representative to serve no more than six terms and a senator no more than two. This keeps the ideas fresh and the concerns of the people current. It also greatly reduces the effectiveness of lobbyists and special interests.
Congressman will receive only a salary while in office and must participate in social security as a retirement vehicle. No longer will they receive a pension—especially for having served as few as one session. All current pensions will be deposited into social security. And will be required to purchase private IRA’s just like every other private citizen.
Congress will no longer be allowed to vote itself a pay raise. Raises will be tagged to the lower of CPI or 3%.
Congress will no longer get the special health care benefits. It should participate in plans used by other U.S. companies.
All contracts with congressmen should be void at a certain point in time. Congressmen are sent to Washington, D.C. to serve, not line their pockets. They should not be allowed to financially benefit from their influence serving the people.
Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, so ours should serve their term(s), then go home and back to work.