Former US President Donald Trump has once again raised the possibility of seeking a third term in office, defying the longstanding two-term limit enshrined in the US Constitution. During a Sunday-morning phone call with NBC News, Trump dismissed previous suggestions that his remarks were mere jest, stating unequivocally, “I’m not joking.” When pressed for clarification, he cryptically referenced “methods” that could enable such an ambitious goal.
The 78-year-old billionaire, who has frequently hinted at extending his tenure, provided the most concrete indication yet of his plans to circumvent the constitutional restriction. Trump’s comments come as he embarks on an unprecedented second presidency, wielding executive power with extraordinary vigor and enlisting allies like Elon Musk to reshape significant portions of the government.
Since assuming office again, Trump has pursued an aggressive agenda, leveraging his wealth and influence to dismantle existing structures and implement sweeping changes. His supporters, he claims, are eager for more of the same. “A lot of people want me to do it,” Trump told NBC News. “But, I mean, I basically tell them we have a long way to go, you know, it’s very early in the administration.”
Despite these assurances, Trump’s remarks have sparked widespread speculation about his intentions. His references to “methods” to achieve a third term have fueled intrigue, leaving many analysts puzzled about the specifics of his plan. While Trump insisted that it was “far too early to think about it,” he acknowledged having been presented with proposals that could make his ambition a reality.
The US Constitution explicitly limits presidents to two terms, a restriction enshrined in the 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951. Amending the Constitution to permit a third term would require a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate—a formidable obstacle given the current composition of Congress. Republicans, who hold a slim majority in the House and a narrow edge in the Senate, lack the numbers needed to pass such an amendment.
Trump acknowledged the difficulty of this route, noting that even if he bypassed Congress, achieving a constitutional amendment would necessitate approval from two-thirds of the nation’s 50 states. Historically, this has proven nearly impossible. Since the founding of the United States, all 27 constitutional amendments have been ratified through the congressional method, with no successful attempt at a constitutional convention.
In January, Republican Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee introduced a House joint resolution to amend the Constitution and allow presidents up to three terms. While symbolic, the proposal underscores the lengths to which some lawmakers are willing to go to accommodate Trump’s ambitions. However, such efforts face significant opposition from Democrats and moderate Republicans, who view the two-term limit as sacrosanct.
When NBC asked Trump about the possibility of Vice President JD Vance running for president and subsequently resigning the office to Trump, the former president responded, “that’s one” method. He declined to elaborate further, citing unspecified “others” that could achieve the same outcome. This vague reference has fueled speculation about potential legal or procedural maneuvers that could circumvent the constitutional prohibition.
Legal experts have questioned the feasibility of such schemes, arguing that they would likely face constitutional challenges in court. The specter of a third term raises thorny questions about the separation of powers and the democratic process, potentially undermining public trust in institutions. Critics have labeled Trump’s suggestions as unconstitutional and undemocratic, warning of a slippery slope toward authoritarianism.
Trump’s comments have reignited debate over his tenure and legacy. Supporters argue that his leadership has revitalized the country and that his policies have yielded tangible benefits. Opponents, however, contend that his actions have eroded democratic norms and undermined the rule of law. The prospect of a third term has polarized public opinion, with many viewing it as a threat to American democracy.
John Thune, the Senate Majority Leader, recently delivered a eulogy for former President Jimmy Carter, emphasizing the importance of term limits in preserving democratic principles. Thune’s remarks, delivered during Carter’s lying-in-state ceremony at the US Capitol, serve as a poignant reminder of the historical significance of the two-term limit and the checks and balances embedded in the Constitution.
As Trump continues to push the boundaries of presidential power, the question of a third term looms large. While the constitutional hurdles appear insurmountable, the mere suggestion has sparked intense debate and raised concerns about the future of American governance. Trump’s remarks underscore his determination to reshape the political landscape, even if it means challenging established norms.
The implications of his ambitions extend beyond the immediate term, influencing how future administrations are perceived and how constitutional amendments are debated. For now, the possibility of a third term remains speculative, but Trump’s unwavering commitment to his vision ensures that the discussion will persist.
In a nation divided over its direction, Trump’s latest pronouncements serve as a reminder of the enduring tension between tradition and transformation. As the country navigates this uncertain terrain, the question remains: How far will Trump go to secure his legacy?
