Elected to Serve

In a time of political turmoil and public distrust, the concept of legislative term limits has gained renewed attention as a potential solution to the perceived problems of career politicians and gridlocked legislatures. This book provides a comprehensive examination of legislative term limits, drawing on the unique experience of Costa Rica, the only long-term democracy to impose term limits on legislators.
Through a detailed analysis of Costa Rica's experience and comparisons with other democracies, including the United States, this book offers valuable insights into the potential consequences of term limits. It explores their impact on legislative behavior, effectiveness, representation, and the long-term health of democratic institutions.
The book delves into the electoral consequences of term limits, examining how they affect incumbency advantage, voter turnout, and the rise of independent and third-party candidates. It also investigates the representational consequences of term limits, considering their impact on descriptive and substantive representation, policymaking, and public opinion.
Furthermore, the book analyzes the institutional consequences of term limits, examining their impact on legislative norms, the role of legislative staff and experts, party cohesion, and legislative leadership. It considers the long-term consequences of term limits on political culture, public trust in government, the quality of democracy, and political stability.
By providing a comprehensive overview of the research and debates surrounding legislative term limits, this book offers valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and citizens interested in understanding the complex relationship between term limits and democratic governance. It is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the potential impact of term limits on the future of democracy.
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