S.Res.154 - Expressing the sense of the Senate that Donald Trump is ineligible in any future elections to be elected Vice-President or President, or to serve as President beyond the conclusion of his current term. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 154 expresses the sense of the Senate that Donald Trump is ineligible for future elections as Vice-President or President, or to serve beyond his current term. The resolution cites the Twelfth and Twenty-Second Amendments to the Constitution as justification. It argues that Trump's prior election to the presidency twice renders him ineligible for future presidential or vice-presidential office.
Expected Effects
The resolution, if adopted, would serve as a formal expression of the Senate's opinion. It would not have the force of law but could influence public opinion and future legal challenges regarding Trump's eligibility. It may also impact the political landscape by signaling the Senate's stance on the issue.
Potential Benefits
- Reinforces constitutional limits on presidential terms.
- Upholds the principle of term limits as established by the 22nd Amendment.
- Clarifies the Senate's position on a matter of constitutional interpretation.
- Could prevent potential constitutional crises related to presidential eligibility.
- Affirms the principle that no individual is above the law.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could be seen as politically motivated and divisive.
- May inflame partisan tensions.
- Could be interpreted as an overreach of legislative power.
- May set a precedent for using resolutions to target individual political figures.
- Could be challenged in court as an unconstitutional bill of attainder.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution cites the Twelfth and Twenty-Second Amendments. The Twelfth Amendment addresses eligibility for the Vice-Presidency for those constitutionally ineligible for the Presidency. The Twenty-Second Amendment limits presidential terms. The resolution's alignment hinges on the interpretation of these amendments and whether they definitively bar Trump from future office, a matter of ongoing debate.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).