Trump Won’t Rule Out Pursuing a Third Term in Office
Trump hints at third term despite constitutional barriers
In a revealing interview with NBC News, former President Donald Trump hasn’t entirely dismissed the idea of a third term in the White House. During a phone call on Sunday morning, Trump claimed, somewhat provocatively, that there “are methods” to pursue such a goal, even though the Constitution’s 22nd Amendment typically prohibits it. He reassured listeners that he wasn’t joking, emphasising the eagerness of his supporters who, he says, want him back in power. When asked about his thoughts on a potential third term, he said, simply, “I like working,” and while he acknowledged the early stage of his current administration, he left the door open just a crack regarding such an ambitious pursuit.
Speculation grows over potential methods for third term
Trump’s remarks have sparked a wave of speculation about what these ‘methods’ could entail. He mentioned a hypothetical scenario about his ally, Vice President J.D. Vance, running for president and then possibly passing the baton back to him. Trump did not elaborate on other possible routes, leaving that question pretty much hanging—with just a firm “no” in response, when pressed for more details. Just to keep the conversation stewing, Trump pointed out his poll numbers, suggesting to reporters that many Americans want to see him back in the Oval Office. It’s a notable shift from past comments that were often dismissed as jest or light-hearted jabs at opponents.
Constitutional experts react to Trump’s implications
There’s considerable alarm among constitutional experts regarding the feasibility of Trump’s aspirations. Amending the Constitution, to overcome the two-term limit, requires a monumental effort—either a two-thirds congressional vote or an equal number of states invoking a constitutional convention, plus ratification by three-quarters of the states. Meanwhile, some of his supporters, like Rep. Andy Ogles from Tennessee, have proposed measures to extend presidential term limits just to facilitate such a grand vision. As this unfolds, allies like Steve Bannon have echoed the belief that Trump could indeed run again in 2028, under the notion that there could be several paths to achieve his aim, despite the considerable legal obstacles ahead. Over on social platforms, the White House managed to stir the pot further, sharing a cheeky magazine cover featuring Trump with a crown, just as he compared himself to royalty amidst discussions about congestion pricing in New York City. Buzz continues to swirl around his cryptic declaration of, “LONG LIVE THE KING!”
