In a recent phone interview with NBC News, former US President Donald Trump expressed that he has not ruled out the possibility of pursuing a third term in the White House, even though the 22nd Amendment of the Constitution prohibits such a move. Trump noted that “there are methods” to enable this ambition and clarified that he was “not joking”. He revealed that many supporters are keen for him to consider running again, but he remains focused on current matters.
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, clearly states that no person can be elected as President more than twice. Despite this, Trump hinted at various strategies to circumvent this limitation. One suggestion brought up by NBC’s Kristen Welker included the possibility of Vice President JD Vance running in the 2028 election and later “passing the baton” to Trump, a concept he confirmed as one of several options without going into specifics.
Historically, Trump has teased the idea of a potential third presidency, stating that it would be a significant honour to serve multiple terms. However, he reiterated that any discussions surrounding this are premature and that he is currently concentrating on more immediate objectives. At previous rallies, Trump playfully hinted at the idea of serving beyond two terms, though he later clarified his intentions were focused on seeking a second term rather than entertaining the notion of a third.
In support of Trump’s aspirations, Steve Bannon suggested that the amendment does not explicitly state that terms must be consecutive, opening a debate on the interpretation of the law. Additionally, Republican Representative Andy Ogles has introduced a bill aimed at modifying the 22nd Amendment, which would potentially facilitate a third term for a president who serves nonconsecutive terms, although this proposal would not permit former presidents like Barack Obama to return to office.
To amend the Constitution, such a change would require significant political backing: a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate, followed by ratification from three-quarters of the states. Only Franklin D. Roosevelt has served more than two terms in US history, prompting the introduction of the 22nd Amendment in response to his presidency. Proponents of Trump’s potential bid face substantial legal hurdles, as experts contend that the current constitutional framework makes a third term infeasible. As Trump approaches the end of his second term in January 2029, he will become the oldest president in history at 82 years and seven months old.