This Democrat Wants Cognitive Standards in Congress. Her Colleagues Disagree.

[karynnj]

10. I understand the problem, but there are many problems

First of all, who will determine if someone's competence should be tested? Who will do the testing? Will there be a standard test and a standard "passing" score.

I can see that older representatives or Senators from the minority party in particular may be targeted.

I think requiring debates with any opponent, primary or general election, who can show support ( polling if it exists or at least a certain percent of the district on their petition to get on the ballot. If someone can perform in a debate, they are likely competent enough to be in office. This is probably harder to do than the basic competency test AND it is judged by the voters.