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It may be one consideration but I don't know as it would influence the average voter any more than the likely pick of a presidential candidate for the question of Supreme Court Justice as opposed to other pressing issues. Or are you saying it absolutely did as a matter of historical fact, as opposed to it probably did as a matter of your opinion. (not meaning to challenge your assertion but wishing to understand its validity)

According to wikipedia, the latter. Though wikipedia may be wrong.

IOW, you're advocating that by becoming a state legislator, a person would give up his/her right to voice an opinion or preference (thinking first amendment here) to the same extent of punishment as if they'd murdered, kidnapped or burgled? Not sure I'd be in agreement with that one.

As a matter of law this can be dealt with easily, a clause could be inserted into the repeal amendment carving out a very specific exception to the 1st amendment. This is mainly to prevent state legislative elections from becoming bogged down in disputes over who would be elected US Senator.