Term limits solution to partisan bickering

After reading the Fence Post contributions ofFeb. 16, it really highlighted the polarization of Americans. Every political opinion was an attempt to tear down the other party, regardless of which one. We have become a society of placing blame, rather than taking responsibility. Our two party system of government was created for the purpose of "checks and balances" and not "them against us." What happened to that concept?

It only stands to reason that if one party controls both houses of Congress, the other feels they have to unify and dig their heels in to prevent runaway legislation. It has worked both ways for years, so is nothing new. Unfortunately, it has become a way of life, and each election is nothing more than positioning ones party to be the majority rather than electing the best person for the job.

We have become a nation of career politicians, at all levels, and that is where the problems start. Career politicians have little incentive to propose/pass legislation unless it connects to votes. Our Congressmen do not have to live with their own decisions as they are part of an elite club, and are practically members for life. The longer someone stays in Congress, the more powerful they become, and the more a target of lobbyists.

As voters, we have less control. The primaries are almost like a general election, in that we have fewer choices. Does anyone wonder why voter turnout is so low? I feel the answer is term limits. If Congress isn't motivated to propose them, then as voters we can certainly help motivate, by not voting for incumbents who have been in office a certain number of years. Everyone should be given a chance to make a difference, but if they haven't in 4-6 years, then they should be removed.

Bob Van Slobig

Naperville