This is the first time I am eligible to vote in a Presidential election. When I think about that privilege, I started wondering a few things.
What are the qualifications for running for President?
- You have to be born in the United States.
Generally, this is the rule. But there are ways around it. For example, Ted Cruz was born in Canada. His father is Cuban. But his mother is American, which gave him US citizenship.
- You have to be at least thirty five.
This makes sense. Wisdom comes with age and life experiences. You have to be thirty in order to be a Senator, and twenty five to be a Representative. The President needs to be able to use his personal life experiences in order for him or her to be able to manage effectively.
- You need to be born in the United Sates and be at least thirty five in order to be Vice President.
The Vice President would take over the country should anything happen to the President, so he needs to have the same qualifications as the President.
- Presidents can only serve two terms
This has to do with the balance of power. This is also why the Senate and House of Representatives get reelected every few years, and the President can seek reelection after four years.
- You don’t have to be a political figure in order to run for President.
In 2016, this is obvious. All you really need to be is thirty five and a United States citizen. Having a political background can help to establish your credibility, but it can also hurt that as well.
Go register to vote!