Donald Trump Considers Third Presidential Term: 'I'm Not Joking'

Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of seeking a third term in office, despite the U.S. Constitution's clear stipulation against anyone being elected president more than twice. In a recent interview, Trump emphasized that he is serious about the prospect, stating, 'I'm not joking.' He indicated that many supporters would like to see him run again in 2028, although he acknowledged that it is too early to make definitive plans.

During his campaign in 2020, Trump hinted at the idea of negotiating another four years in the White House. Following his reelection in November, he frequently referenced this notion, often with a humorous tone. However, in an interview with NBC, he clarified his stance, suggesting that there are methods to potentially facilitate a third term.

Trump's comments have sparked discussions about various scenarios, one of which involves a hypothetical role reversal with his current Vice President, J.D. Vance. In this scenario, Vance would run for president, and if elected, could resign shortly after taking office, allowing Trump to assume the presidency once again. Trump noted that while this is one possibility, there are others he chose not to elaborate on.

The notion of a third term raises significant legal questions. The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly prohibits anyone from being elected president more than twice. Furthermore, the 12th Amendment complicates the idea of a former president running as vice president, stating that individuals who are constitutionally ineligible for the presidency cannot be elected vice president. Given that no former two-term president has ever attempted to run for vice president, the legal implications remain somewhat ambiguous. It is also unlikely that the current conservative majority in the Supreme Court would interpret the Constitution in a manner favorable to Trump.

Another avenue Trump could explore is attempting to amend the Constitution. However, such a move would require overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress, which is improbable with the current narrow Republican majorities. A constitutional amendment would necessitate approval from two-thirds of both the House and Senate or a convention called by two-thirds of the states, followed by ratification from three-fourths of the states.

Despite these challenges, there are fears that Trump may try to bypass legal restrictions altogether. One potential scenario could involve him positioning himself as a candidate and relying on party support to override constitutional limitations, citing popular support if he wins the primary convincingly. Alternatively, there could be attempts to delay elections by invoking a state of emergency, a prospect that worries many observers.

Analysts offer varied interpretations of Trump's motivations for discussing a third term. Some suggest he aims to maintain a strong position within the Republican Party and leverage his influence on foreign policy. Others express concern that he might be serious about pursuing this path, especially given the ongoing legal issues he faces, which could be exacerbated under a Democratic administration.

Within the Republican Party, reactions to Trump's idea of a third term are mixed. While some, like right-wing commentator Steve Bannon, have voiced support, many mainstream Republicans remain skeptical. Recently, Congressman Andy Ogles introduced a proposal for a constitutional amendment to facilitate Trump's extended presidency, claiming he is the only leader capable of restoring America's former greatness.

Additionally, influential figures such as Senator Lindsey Graham have playfully suggested a third term for Trump, although he later downplayed his comments as a joke. Meanwhile, Democrats have taken to humorously speculating about their own candidates, with former Senator Al Franken jokingly suggesting Barack Obama could make a comeback, despite the constitutional barriers in place.