Besides, re-election means facing the public. Term limits would create a new, politically dangerous category of "lame duck" representatives and senators. These representatives would become completely unaccountable to the public in their final terms.

Term limits are also a raw deal for smaller constituencies. One of the ways that a state like Alaska, with only one delegate in the House, can increase its influence is by sencing a qualified member back to Congress each election. Gradually, that representative amasses seniority and respect, possibly even chairing a committee of particular interest to the state.

If Congressional elections are rigged to include only newcomers, small states will be like expansion teams lost in a sea of perennial contenders. Even the goal of filling Congress with fresher faces that are more in touch with constituents will not directly follow. Without any campaign finance reform, races for open seats would still favor contenders connected into political machinery and money.

The true obstacle to a more open forum for ideas and policy debate is inherent in the two-party system. The fact is, in our world of Republicans and Democrats, only candidates that fit into those two molds have any real chance at running a campaign capable of winning an office. Reformers must consider other solutions. For example, campaign, finance reform is necessary even if term limits are imposed.

To facilitate the freer exchange of ideas that critics seek, Americans should support placing ceiling on campaign spending and forming more political parties. It is unequal access to money, not ballots, that entrenches incumbents in Washington.

Yet even these solutions are not enough to rejuvenate American politics. Office seekers must have the courage to run campaigns based on ideas and principles, and the electorate must reward those that do with a ticket to City Hall, the state capital, or Washington, D.C. No amount of constitutional tinkering will accomplish that.

We need a political reawakening we must study issues instead of soundbites.

Barring such a revolution in political attitudes, term limits will only grant the artificial appearance of political renewal. Voters must take the responsibility to be educated and informed, or to settle for what is handed to them.

So the next time someone tells you that you would be better off without a certain member of Congress, go ahead and agree with them. But don't let them decide for you. Vote no on Number Four and vote the bums out.