Trump Weighs Third-Term Run Despite Constitutional Limits

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at running for a third term, despite the Constitution restricting presidents to two terms.

Trump’s Interest in a Third Term

During a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, Trump said he was exploring ways to bypass the constitutional limit. When asked if he was serious, he responded, “No, I’m not joking. I’m not joking. But it is far too early to think about it. There are methods which you could do, as you know.” However, he did not elaborate on what those methods might be.

The 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution clearly states that a president can only be elected twice. The only exception is if a person serves less than two years of another president’s term due to death, resignation, or removal. Since Trump served a full term from 2017 to 2021 and is now serving a second, he does not qualify under this exception.

Changing the Constitution is extremely difficult. It requires a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate, followed by approval from three-fourths of the 50 states.

Strong Support from His Base

Despite the constitutional barrier, Trump remains confident in his influence. He pointed to his strong poll numbers and said, “A lot of people want me to do it. But I mean, I basically tell them we have a long way to go, you know.”

Past Hints at a Third Term

This is not the first time Trump has suggested the idea of staying in office beyond two terms. In the past, he made similar comments, often dismissed as jokes.

For instance, just days after his 2017 inauguration, he joked about saving money for a third run. “I’ve raised a lot of money for the next race that I assume I can’t use for myself, but I’m not 100% sure. I think I’m not allowed to run again.”

However, some of his supporters have taken the idea seriously. Tennessee Representative Andy Ogles even introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives to amend the Constitution and allow Trump to serve a third term. Ogles argued that Trump is the only leader capable of restoring America’s greatness and should be given more time.

Yet, the resolution has made no progress in Congress and faces an uphill battle.

What’s Next?

While Trump’s comments may not lead to immediate action, they keep the conversation alive among his supporters. However, overturning a constitutional amendment is a long and difficult process, making a third-term bid unlikely—at least for now.