Why Term Limits Protect Democracy and Strengthen Canada

Democracy flourishes when power is held in check, leadership remains accountable, and opportunities exist for new voices to emerge. This is why term limits are crucial for protecting democracy at all levels of government, including here in Richmond and across Canada. As a long-time advocate for term limits, I firmly believe they strengthen governance, encourage fresh ideas, and prevent the entrenchment of career politicians who can become disconnected from the people they serve.

Without term limits, political stagnation becomes a real risk. Incumbents gain name recognition, access to resources, and political influence that make it increasingly difficult for challengers to compete fairly. This leads to a consolidation of power that is at odds with democratic principles. Over time, politicians who remain in office indefinitely often become less responsive to the needs of their constituents and more focused on maintaining their position. We only need to look at international examples to see the dangers of unlimited terms.

Imagine if the Presidency of the United States had no term limits?

The current president represents a stark warning about what can happen when political leaders prioritize personal ambition over democratic norms. This US President has continued to undermine institutions and spread division. His persistent grip on political influence highlights why democratic systems must have safeguards to prevent individuals from dominating political life indefinitely.

Canada is not immune to these risks. While we have historically maintained a stable and democratic system, we should not take this for granted. In municipal politics, where there are often no term limits, the risks of entrenchment and unchecked power are concerning. City councils that lack turnover can become echo chambers, resistant to new ideas and less reflective of the diverse perspectives in their communities.

This is why I have supported term limits in Richmond. Limiting the number of terms for elected officials ensures that our democracy remains dynamic and accountable. It encourages new candidates to step forward, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the challenges we face. It also helps prevent the type of political inertia that can lead to declining voter engagement and public trust.

Implementing term limits is not about dismissing experienced leadership—it is about ensuring that our democratic institutions serve the people rather than individual political careers. It is a measure that aligns with the core principles of democratic governance: accountability, renewal, and representation. If we want a government that truly reflects the evolving needs of our communities, we must create space for new leaders to emerge and contribute. Elected office should be public service not a career for life.

I have advocated for term limits involving two or three terms of four years each.  I urge Richmond residents and Canadian politicians to consider the long-term health of our democracy. By supporting term limits, we can protect our institutions, strengthen our governance, and ensure that leadership remains responsive to the people. This is not just a political issue—it is a fundamental democratic principle that deserves our attention and commitment.

Sincerely,

Jerome Dickey