⚓ Welcome to Tidal Echoes

Series: “Youth Speaks Its Mind” (A republication of our hometown newspaper, The Suffolk County News, from 65 years ago)

Our history isn't just a timeline; it's a series of waves that shape who we are today. In this series, we revisit the bold voices of Sayville’s past. Today, we listen to Frank Kuipers as he critiques the 22nd Amendment and the limitations of presidential term limits in 1962.

Originally published in The Suffolk County News on February 21st, 1962. Transcribed for the Sayville Alumni Association.

Presidential Leadership and the 22nd Amendment

By Frank Kuipers, Sayville High School

When the people of the United States want a certain man as their leader, should he be refused that leadership because he already has served two terms as President?

The 22nd amendment created a dangerous weakness in our government because it could force the United States to accept a new President during a major crisis. The outgoing President would have all the experience of his eight years of office, which would include first hand knowledge of the crisis itself. The incoming President, however, would face a difficult situation the moment he assumed office.

Furthermore, he would have to select his cabinet and establish a personal relationship with other world leaders, a relationship which is vital toward solving any world problems. Because of the time involved, all these delays would be fatal in this fast moving age.

Those opposed to giving a President an unlimited number of terms argue that he might be given too much power. Since the people have the power to vote a man in and out of office, as long as they exercise that privilege, no man can become too powerful.

⚓ Cast Your Thoughts

How do these words from 1962 land today? Reflecting on Frank Kuipers's insights:

• frank argues that the 22nd amendment could be "fatal in this fast moving age"—was there a specific global crisis in 1962 that you think fueled this concern?
• he notes that the power of the vote prevents a president from becoming "too powerful"—do you agree that term limits are unnecessary if the electorate is active?
• looking back on the presidents who have served since 1962, do you feel the two-term limit has helped or hindered american leadership?