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America's faith in Congress has hit rock bottom -- and for good reason. The institution created to serve the people has too often become a bastion of careerism, self-preservation and dysfunction. Congressional approval ratings remain stuck in the basement, yet re-election rates hover above 90 percent. This disconnect is no accident -- it's the result of a system designed to reward incumbency over innovation, loyalty to party over service to country.
That's why real reform must begin with term limits for Congress -- a bold, structural change that can finally restore accountability, transparency and trust. And Ohio is in a position to help lead that charge by passing House Joint Resolution 3 and Senate Joint Resolution 6.
A tool for reform
These resolutions would formally call for an Article V convention of states to propose a congressional term limits amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Under Article V, when 34 states pass similar resolutions, they can convene to propose amendments --bypassing Congress entirely. That's exactly what's needed. Expecting Congress to limit its own power is like expecting a fox to guard the henhouse.
Passing HJR3 and SJR6 wouldn't immediately impose term limits. It would simply allow Ohio to join the growing number of states demanding a conversation about real congressional reform.
How term limits reform
Term limits would:
• End careerism in Washington: The Founders envisioned public service as a temporary duty -- not a lifelong career. Today, too many lawmakers treat congressional seats like tenure. Term limits would break the cycle of perpetual re-election, reduce the grip of political machines and make room for citizen-legislators who bring fresh ideas and real-world experience.
• Rebalance power: Seniority often matters more than merit. Longtime incumbents dominate committee chairmanships, control funding and shape the legislative agenda -- frequently to benefit entrenched interests. Term limits would level the playing field, reduce the concentration of power and promote a more dynamic, responsive legislature.
• Increase bipartisanship and courage: When re-election is no longer the priority, legislators are more likely to act on principle -- not just political calculation. Term-limited lawmakers would have the freedom to cross party lines, challenge special interests and focus on problem-solving rather than posturing.
• Restore public trust: Americans are cynical about Congress -- and rightly so. Term limits would send a powerful signal that no one is above accountability and that Washington is not a permanent political class. Reform begins with fairness, and fairness begins by ending lifetime seats in Congress.
Why Ohio matters
Ohio has always been a national bellwether. It reflects the values, frustrations and aspirations of everyday Americans. When Ohio leads, others follow. If Ohio passes HJR3 and SJR6, it will not only help trigger the 34-state threshold for a convention, but it will also set the tone for a national movement to clean up Congress.
This isn't about partisan politics -- it's about repairing the foundation of American democracy. Polls show that over 80 percent of Americans, across the political spectrum, support term limits. It's time for our laws to reflect the will of the people.
A rare chance to lead
Congress won't reform itself. But the Constitution gives the states -- and their citizens -- the power to demand better. Ohio has that power right now. By passing HJR3 and SJR6, lawmakers in Columbus can take a historic step toward restoring integrity and accountability in Washington.
The American people are watching. They're ready for change. And Ohio can lead the way.
(Coughlin is the Ohio state chair for U.S. Term Limits)