Donald Trump Third Term: ‘There Are Methods,’ Says Trump Despite Constitutional Limit
Trump Hints at a Possible Third Term
Donald Trump has once again suggested the possibility of seeking a third term, even though the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits it. In a recent interview with NBC News, Trump stated, “There are methods” to make it happen and emphasized that he was “not joking.”
Can Trump Run for a Third Term?
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, states that no individual can be elected as president more than twice. When asked about ways to bypass this restriction, Trump responded, “There are methods which you could do it.” One possible strategy mentioned was having Vice President JD Vance run in 2028 and later hand over power to Trump. Trump acknowledged this as an option, adding, “Well, that’s one. But there are others too,” without elaborating further.
Trump’s History of Teasing a Third Term
This is not the first time Trump has floated the idea of serving beyond two terms. During a rally in Nevada earlier this year, he remarked that serving “three times or four times” would be an honor, though he later clarified that he was focused on completing two terms. Additionally, during a Black History Month event, he asked supporters if he should run again, prompting chants of “Four more years!”
Legal and Political Challenges
Trump’s remarks have reignited debate, but legal experts argue that a third term is unconstitutional. Michael Waldman, president of the Brennan Center for Justice, dismissed the idea outright, stating, “It’s illegal. He has no chance.” However, some Trump allies, including Steve Bannon, have pointed out that the amendment does not explicitly prohibit nonconsecutive terms. Meanwhile, Rep. Andy Ogles has introduced a proposal to amend the Constitution, allowing presidents who have served nonconsecutive terms to seek a third term. However, for such an amendment to pass, it would require approval from two-thirds of Congress and ratification by three-fourths of the states—an incredibly difficult political process.
If Trump completes his second term in 2029, he will be 82 years and 7 months old, making him the oldest U.S. president in history, surpassing Joe Biden’s record. While significant legal barriers remain, Trump’s latest comments suggest he is seriously considering his options for a third term.
