On Tuesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson revealed that he had recently spoken with former President Donald Trump regarding the possibility of Trump pursuing a third term in office. However, Johnson, a constitutional lawyer, expressed skepticism about the feasibility of such a move, emphasizing that any attempt to alter the U.S. Constitution would likely occur long after Trump has left office. “Well, there’s the 22nd Amendment,” Johnson stated when asked about his thoughts on Trump potentially running in 2028. “It’s been a great run. But I think the president knows, and he and I have talked about, the constrictions of the Constitution, as much as so many of the American people lament that,” he added.
Johnson went on to suggest that Trump’s public discussions about a potential 2028 bid are largely a tactic to provoke reactions from members of the opposing party. “The Trump 2028 cap is one of the most popular that’s ever been produced. And he has a good time with that, trolling the Democrats, whose hair is on fire about the very prospect,” he commented to reporters on Capitol Hill. This acknowledgment from the Republican leader lends credibility to concerns from Trump’s opponents, who fear he is seriously considering actions that could undermine the Constitution. Nevertheless, Johnson’s quick dismissal of the idea underscores the lack of support Trump would likely encounter if he attempted to pursue such a path.
During their conversation, Johnson noted that any amendment to the Constitution would be a prolonged and complex process. “I don’t see a way to amend the Constitution because it takes about 10 years to do that, as you all know, to allow all the states to ratify… what two-thirds of the House, three-fourths of the states would approve. So, I don’t see the path for that,” he stated. Meanwhile, Trump has continued to entertain the idea of a third term, mentioning to reporters that he would “love to do it.” He also speculated about potential running mates for 2028, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
While Trump did rule out one controversial strategy—running as vice president to later ascend to the presidency—he noted that it would be “too cute” and not in line with what the public would appreciate. “I think the people wouldn’t like that because it’s too cute. It’s not — it wouldn’t be right,” he explained, although he maintained that legally, he could pursue such a route. At the White House, Trump has joked about a potential third term, with Trump 2028 hats displayed nearby the Oval Office. Recently, he shared images of these hats on the Resolute Desk during a meeting with House and Senate minority leaders, Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer.
Despite the public speculation, some insiders close to Trump have indicated that a serious run for a third term is not currently on the agenda. They argue that discussions about a third term serve as “like catnip” for the media and Democrats, generating the attention that Trump is known to relish. This speculation intensified following an interview with Steve Bannon, a former Trump adviser, who claimed “there is a plan” for Trump to run for a third term. However, Bannon's current distance from Trump’s inner circle raises questions about the validity of his assertions, with some White House officials viewing his comments as self-serving.
While the idea of a third term may seem far-fetched, sources close to Trump insist that he is not actively plotting a 2028 campaign. The obstacles posed by the constitutional amendment process, along with Trump's awareness of his age and the importance he places on his legacy, contribute to this perspective. Those familiar with Trump argue that he does not want to be perceived in the same light as President Joe Biden, whose age and health have been a recurring theme during his presidency. If Trump were to return to office, he would be 82 years old.
“He said publicly he’s not gonna do a third term. Anytime it comes up, it’s Trump being Trump. He’s going to do the ‘Many people would love that!’ thing,” remarked a person close to the former president. They emphasized that no serious discussions about 2028 are taking place at this time, including among potential successors like Vance and Rubio. “That’s something we all expect to play more of a role come the midterms,” they concluded. This narrative continues to evolve, reflecting the complexities of American politics and the enduring influence of Trump within the Republican Party.
