Do All Term Limits Create Rotation in Office?

Two systems both remove an officeholder after two terms.

In one system, the individual must leave after two terms but may run again after a break.
In the other, the individual must leave after two terms and may never hold the office again.

Both systems produce turnover in the seat.

Do both systems produce rotation in office?

If both systems produce rotation, then the ability to return after interruption does not affect rotation.

If only one system produces rotation, then rotation depends on whether eligibility is restored or permanently exhausted.

In the first system, eligibility is restored after interruption. The same individual may return and continue holding the office over time.

In the second system, eligibility is permanently exhausted. The same individual cannot return.

Rotation in office occurs only when eligibility is permanently exhausted and cannot be restored.

Turnover can occur under both systems.

Rotation occurs only when eligibility cannot be restored.

Last updated — May 2026