On Thursday, U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee) introduced a resolution proposing term limits for the Senate Parliamentarian. This role is pivotal in advising on rules, procedures, and precedents within the United States Senate, particularly concerning the reconciliation process. The senators suggest that the parliamentarian should serve a single six-year term to prevent power entrenchment, enhance accountability, and introduce fresh perspectives.
Senator Marshall expressed concerns about potential decisions by the current parliamentarian that might eliminate significant savings for Americans. He stated, “Based upon early reports, the Senate Parliamentarian may eliminate some $500 billion in savings for the American people, all of which are arbitrary decisions, with minimal guidance.” He noted that the current parliamentarian has held office since 2012 after being appointed by former Senator Harry Reid. “This is NOT an elected position,” he emphasized.
Senator Tuberville criticized what he described as attempts to undermine President Trump’s agenda by unelected officials. He remarked, “The woke, Radical Left Senate Parliamentarian…is actively trying to undermine President Trump’s agenda.” Tuberville supported introducing term limits as a measure against such influence.
Senator Blackburn highlighted the unchecked power of the parliamentarian over significant legislation despite not being elected. She said, “The Senate parliamentarian holds unchecked power over major legislation…we must act now to impose term limits.”
The full text of their proposed resolution is available online.
