22nd Amendment (1951) Limits on presidential terms
The Twenty-Second Amendment limits how long one person can serve as President.
It exists to prevent excessive concentration of executive power.
In daily life, it ensures no President remains in office indefinitely.
Plain-English summary of the 22nd Amendment
The amendment limits Presidents to two elected terms.
It was added after Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms.
Its goal is to prevent any single individual from holding executive power too long.
What the 22nd Amendment actually says (short excerpt)
“No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice…”
In plain English: no third term.
How the 22nd Amendment stops government overreach
What the government may NOT do
Allow unlimited presidential terms.
Create a permanent presidency.
What citizens may rely on
Regular leadership turnover.
Limits on executive authority.
Which branch is most affected
The Executive Branch.
Everyday examples
Presidents leave office after two terms even if popular.
Historical story – after Roosevelt
After FDR’s long presidency, many Americans worried about concentrated power.
The Twenty-Second Amendment made term limits permanent.
Historical quote showing the thinking behind the amendment
George Washington voluntarily stepped down after two terms, setting a tradition.
The amendment turned that tradition into law.
How the 22nd Amendment shows up on the USCIS civics test
USCIS example question
How many terms can a President serve?
Correct short answer
Two terms.
Everyday life examples
Presidential elections stay competitive.
No lifelong presidents.
Quick recap – what to remember about the 22nd Amendment
It limits executive power.
It enforces leadership change.
It protects democracy.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 22nd Amendment
Can it be changed?
Only by another amendment.
Does it apply to Vice Presidents?
No, only Presidents.
Why does it matter?
Because power needs limits.