Which amendment to the Constitution limits the President to two terms?

Prepare for the AP U.S. Government and Politics Test on The Presidency. Study using flashcards, multiple-choice questions, hints, and explanations. Be ready for your test!

The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution specifically establishes a limit on the number of terms a President can serve, capping it at two terms, or a maximum of ten years in office if they ascend from the vice presidency. This amendment was ratified in 1951 in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt's unprecedented four-term presidency, which raised concerns about the potential for a concentration of power in the executive branch. By ensuring a two-term limit, the amendment aims to promote democratic principles and prevent any one individual from holding the presidency for an extended period, thereby encouraging political turnover and responsiveness in leadership.

In contrast, the other amendments listed do not address presidential term limits: the 20th Amendment pertains to the terms of office and the procedure for presidential succession; the 25th Amendment deals with presidential succession and disability; and the 27th Amendment regulates congressional pay changes. These distinctions underscore why the 22nd Amendment is focused solely on the presidency and its limits.

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