In my fair city, the term limits laws keep the elected officials to 2 terms in office. That's how the people of New York City want it and have voted twice in favor of keeping it that way (1993, 1996). Now, under the guise of saving the city from a potentially dangerous economic downturn, with Mayor Mike Bloomberg as the messiah, a chorus of both Bloomberg supporters and term limits opponents has been selfishly leading the charge against the will of the people and granting Hizzoner eligibility for a third term. Of course, the desire to remain as incumbents is a large factor in all this for members of the City Council, while the possible economic fallout serves as political cover.
You know what? We heard this nonsense regarding Rudy Giuliani in the aftermath of the Sept. 11th tragedy. (By the way, Guiliani was the main instigator for term limits...until HE became an incumbent. Figures.) And guess what? Bloomberg came in, got the job done, and was a MUCH BETTER mayor than Capt. Comb-over ever was. So, this time I say, let's respect the will of the people, bring in somebody new and give them a chance to lead the way, with new ideas and policies. Isn't that what democracy is all about?
Three of the major local newspapers--NY Times, Daily News and Post; the top Spanish-language daily, El Diario, is against it, I believe--are in favor of barring term limits, so it looks like the people will have to stand up for themselves and let their displeasure with this proposal be heard. Again.
