During a recent flight aboard Air Force One from Japan to South Korea, President Donald Trump shared his thoughts on the possibility of running for a third term, stating, “it’s too bad” he is constitutionally barred from doing so. This admission highlights Trump's ongoing interest in extending his time in office, despite acknowledging the realities dictated by the U.S. Constitution. “If you read it, it’s pretty clear,” Trump remarked, emphasizing the restrictions placed upon him by the 22nd Amendment.
Trump's comments come in the wake of House Speaker Mike Johnson asserting that it would be impossible for Trump to remain in the White House beyond his two terms. Johnson, a prominent figure in the Republican Party who has aligned closely with Trump, explained in a press conference that he has discussed these constitutional limitations with the president. “He and I have talked about the constrictions of the Constitution,” Johnson stated, underlining the challenges of amending the 22nd Amendment, which prohibits third presidential terms.
Johnson elaborated on the arduous process required to change such a significant constitutional provision, emphasizing that it would take a decade of effort to garner support from both state legislatures and Congress. “But I can tell you that we are not going to take our foot off the gas pedal,” he assured reporters, promising to deliver results for the American people in the upcoming years.
While Trump acknowledged the limitations placed on him by the Constitution, his language remained somewhat vague. "Based on what I read, I guess I’m not allowed to run," he commented, leaving the door open for speculation about his political future. Trump has previously hinted at a desire to remain influential within the political landscape, with hats proclaiming “Trump 2028” being distributed as souvenirs to visitors at the White House.
Furthermore, Trump's former campaign manager, Stephen Bannon, has reignited discussions surrounding the potential for a third term, suggesting that Trump’s ambitions are far from over. On a recent flight to Japan, Trump expressed enthusiasm about the Republican Party's future leaders, mentioning rising stars like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance.
When questioned about the possibility of running as a vice president to later assume the presidency, Trump dismissed the notion as “too cute.” “You’d be allowed to do that, but I wouldn’t do that,” he stated, further fueling discussions about his political strategies and ambitions.
As Trump navigates his political future, he continues to engage in actions that push the limits of presidential authority. From deploying National Guard troops in various cities against the wishes of state governors to accepting private donations for military funding and White House renovations, Trump appears undeterred by criticism regarding his approach to governance.
House Speaker Johnson, who rapidly ascended to his position with Trump’s backing, downplayed concerns regarding Trump’s potential third term, suggesting that critics are overreacting. “He has a good time with that, trolling the Democrats,” Johnson remarked, hinting at Trump’s knack for stirring political debate and capturing public attention.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Trump’s future remains a topic of keen interest. His musings about a third term, although constitutionally constrained, keep his supporters engaged and the political discourse lively.
