Commenter Rich Rostrom (over at Weasel’s place), on the prevention of political dynasties:

JW^[1]:  I’d go further: “No one shall be eligible for election to any office of the United States, or of any state, or of any territory, or any local or municipal government under the United States or any state or territory, whose spouse, or sibling, parent, grandparent, or parent’s sibling, by blood, adoption, or marriage (including former marriages), has previously served in that office by election; all seats in any legislative assembly or adminstrative commission being considered the same office.”

This would get rid of Senators Dodd and Bayh, and about 30 Representatives.

It would have prevented Senators Lincoln Chaffee, Al Gore jr., Liz Dole, Bobby and Teddy Kennedy, and a great many others in the past (there were five Senator Bayards from Delaware).  Also Pat and Joe II Kennedy (JFK was in the House for three terms).

One thing – the previous holder has to have been elected.  Otherwise, the opposition could appoint some relative who hates you to the office for a day, and then you’re blocked.

Posted by: Old Grouch in In Passing at 16:03:45 GMT | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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