What are Trump's comments on pursuing a third term?

In recent months, President Donald Trump has alluded to the possibility of a third presidential term despite constitutional limits that restrict any individual from serving more than two terms. However, in his latest statements, he has played down the idea of running for a third term.

In late October, Trump addressed the issue, acknowledging that he is "not allowed to run" again. On August 5, when questioned about the likelihood of a third campaign, he responded, "no, probably not," but added, "I'd like to." These comments followed earlier remarks in March where he told NBC that he was not joking about the possibility of another term, even suggesting there could be "methods" to achieve it, despite constitutional restrictions.

Trump's supporters, such as his former strategist Steve Bannon, have called for him to run again. Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles even introduced a resolution earlier this year to amend the Constitution and allow Trump to be elected for another term. Senate Majority Leader John Thune responded, noting that a third term would require a change to the Constitution, and suggested that Trump may simply be "having some fun" with the idea, rather than being serious about it.

Constitutional experts, however, believe that altering the Constitution to allow for a third term is highly improbable. Some election law scholars argue that the ongoing talk of a third term might be a strategic attempt by Trump to project strength and avoid being perceived as a lame-duck president.

Trump's Past Comments on Serving Beyond Two Terms

Trump has occasionally hinted at the idea of serving more than two terms, particularly during his re-election campaign in 2020. At a rally in Minden, Nevada, he suggested that he could win four more years and possibly serve beyond his second term. "Were going to win four more years in the White House. And then after that, well negotiate, right?" he said, adding, "Because were probably, based on the way we were treated, were probably entitled to another four after that."

Shortly after taking office in 2017, Trump joked about serving multiple terms during a rally in Las Vegas. He said, "It will be the greatest honor of my life to serve, not once but twice or three times or four times," before quickly clarifying, "No, it will be to serve twice." On January 27, during a meeting with House Republicans, Trump again alluded to the possibility of running for a third term, saying, "I think Im not allowed to run again. Im not sure. Am I allowed to run again?"

At a National Prayer Breakfast on February 6, Trump commented on the idea of a third term, noting, They say I cant run again thats the expression. Later, on February 20, while celebrating Black History Month, he joked about running again, with his supporters chanting, four more years!

March Remarks: "There are Methods"

During a March interview with NBC, Trump said, "Im not joking" about the idea of a third term. For the first time, he suggested that there might be "methods" to extend his time in office, though he downplayed the idea as premature. Trump noted his strong favorability ratings and said that many Americans have expressed support for him to run again, stating, I have had more people say, 'please run again.'" He added that the conversation about a third term was still far too early to consider seriously.

While speaking with reporters on Air Force One, Trump reiterated that the idea of a third term was not something he was actively pursuing. "Weve got a long time to go," he said, emphasizing that there were "almost four years to go" in his current term. Despite this, he acknowledged that many people were encouraging him to run again, claiming, They love the job.

In a separate interview on May 2, Trump dismissed the idea of seeking a third term, saying that although he had received strong support, "to the best of my knowledge, you're not allowed to do it." He stated that he intended to serve out his current term and then hand over the reins to a great Republican successor. When asked about efforts by his allies to amend the Constitution, Trump described such initiatives as a great compliment due to his popularity.

Recent Comments: "I'm Not Allowed to Run"

Trumps more recent remarks on the subject have reaffirmed that hes not considering a third term. On August 5, in a CNBC interview, he expressed appreciation for the support he had received from voters in Texas and hinted that he could have another successful run, but still concluded, No, probably not. Id like to run. He mentioned his accomplishments on trade and foreign policy, but reiterated that he was "not allowed to run again." He later echoed this sentiment during a trip to Asia on October 29, saying, If you read it [the Constitution], its pretty clear. Im not allowed to run. Its too bad.

Trump Reflects on Remaining Time in Office

During a White House Christmas party on December 1, Trump acknowledged that he had "a little more than three years" left in his presidency. He expressed confidence that he would continue to accomplish significant work during that time, saying, Three years for Trump is an eternity. Thats a long period of time.

Author: Chloe Ramirez