US President Donald Trump has once again hinted at seeking a third term, despite the two-term limit set by the US Constitution.
Key Highlights
- In a Sunday phone interview with NBC News, Trump stated: “I’m not joking”, when asked about his third-term aspirations.
- He claimed there are “methods” to achieve it but did not provide specific details.
- Trump has previously suggested extending his presidency, but this was his most concrete statement on the matter.
- He argued that “a lot of people” want him to continue leading, but acknowledged that it was “very early” in his administration.
Legal and Constitutional Challenges
- The US Constitution (22nd Amendment) prohibits presidents from serving more than two terms.
- To allow a third term, Trump would need:
- Two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate (which Republicans do not currently hold).
- Ratification by three-quarters of US states if a constitutional amendment is proposed.
- Another potential route is a constitutional convention, requiring two-thirds of US states to agree—something that has never happened in US history.
Possible Scenarios Mentioned by Trump
- Trump suggested Vice President JD Vance could run for president, win, and then step down, allowing Trump to return.
- He hinted at “other methods” but refused to elaborate.
Congressional Moves
- In January 2025, Republican Rep. Andy Ogles (Tennessee) introduced a House joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to allow three presidential terms.
- However, such an amendment would face significant political and legal hurdles.
Conclusion
Despite Trump’s comments, a third term remains highly unlikely due to the constitutional restrictions and the political difficulty of amending the US Constitution. However, his remarks have reignited debates over presidential term limits and the potential challenges to US democratic norms.
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