President Donald Trump discussed the possibility of pursuing a third term in the White House, despite the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits any individual from being elected to the presidency more than twice. While Trump acknowledged that the 22nd Amendment is in place, he hinted that there are “methods” that could allow him to run for a third term, though he did not provide further details.
During a phone interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker, Trump stated that many people wanted him to consider a third term and emphasized that he wasn’t joking about the idea. He mentioned the possibility of Vice President JD Vance running in 2028 and then “passing the baton” to Trump, although he also suggested there were other potential strategies.
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, was enacted after Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four terms in office and prohibits presidents from being elected more than twice. However, Trump has often teased the idea of a third presidency. Steve Bannon, an ally of Trump, has argued that the amendment doesn’t specify consecutive terms, which some interpret as a potential opening for Trump to run again after serving two non-consecutive terms.
In response to this, Rep. Andy Ogles, a Tennessee Republican, has introduced a proposal in the House to modify the 22nd Amendment, which would allow presidents to serve non-consecutive terms, though this would require a significant process of legal changes. Legal experts, such as Michael Waldman, argue that such an effort is unlikely to succeed, noting that the 22nd Amendment is clear in its prohibition.
This discussion of a third term takes place against the backdrop of Trump’s age, as he would be the oldest individual to ever serve as president if he were to run again after his second term in 2029.