That's what Politico says we are in store for come January when the 113th Congress is set to convene:
Between the historically large 2010 freshman class, 36 lawmaker
retirements in 2012 and the expected election turnover this fall, the
new Congress could have upward of 155 members with less than four years
of experience. And the implications of a youthful Congress are
significant: On the upside, the American voter will get even more fresh
blood infused into the least popular Congress in modern history,
bringing new ideas and vigor to the stodgy Capitol.
But there’s also a significant downside: The new breed — in both
parties — is more partisan, less willing to compromise, not beholden to
any leader, chairmen or customs, all of which can throw a wrench into
the tradition of legislating.
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In other words, the new Congress could be even worse in terms of
gridlock and polarization, even as voters rebuke the legislative branch
for being that way.
“There are chairmen of subcommittees who don’t know which end of the
gavel to use, much less how to get a bill through Congress,” said Rep.
Jim Cooper (D.-Tenn)
We discussed the pros and cons of short term length in 2302 today. We'll find out more soon enough.
