Donald Trump has once again stirred up speculation about a potential third term in the White House, saying that he “would love” to serve again but ruling out the unorthodox strategy of running for vice president in 2028. This comes even though the U.S. Constitution limits presidents to two terms.
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Trump Considers Third Term, But Rejects Vice Presidency
During a trip to Asia, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that while he would be allowed to run for a third term as vice president, he would not pursue that route. “I think it’s too cute,” he said, adding that it would not be “right” and that the public wouldn’t support such a strategy. This remark came as he reflected on the possibility of extending his presidency, with some supporters suggesting a vice-presidential run followed by a presidential resignation to allow Trump to reassume office.
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The ‘Too Cute’ Vice Presidency Gambit
Trump’s dismissal of the vice-presidency plan follows an idea floated by some of his supporters, who argued that he could run for vice president, then have the elected president resign so Trump could step in. Although the concept has been debated, Trump’s rejection of the idea reflects his belief that it would be “too cute” and potentially unpopular. This unorthodox suggestion has raised questions about the limits of executive power and potential loopholes in the Constitution.
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Trump’s Desire for a Third Term
Despite the constitutional ban on third terms, Trump expressed enthusiasm for the idea, stating, “I would love to do it,” citing his strong approval numbers. His comments came after the Trump Organization began selling “Trump 2028” merchandise, further fueling speculation about his future political ambitions. Trump has previously teased the possibility of a 2028 run, even handing out “Trump 2028” hats during White House meetings.
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The Legal Challenges of a Third Term
Under the 22nd Amendment, U.S. presidents are limited to two terms. While Trump’s supporters have speculated on ways to circumvent this rule, legal experts agree that any attempt to challenge the amendment would likely be unsuccessful. Quinnipiac University law professor Wayne Unger argued that the language of the amendment is clear, stating, “Presidents are limited to two terms of four years each,” and that any challenge would likely be struck down by the Supreme Court.
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Could Trump’s Allies Repeal the 22nd Amendment?
There have been attempts, such as from former President Ronald Reagan, to repeal the 22nd Amendment, but such a move would require significant political support, including a two-thirds majority in Congress and ratification by 38 state legislatures. While some Republican lawmakers have proposed altering the amendment to allow for non-consecutive terms, such efforts face significant opposition, particularly in today’s hyper-partisan political climate.
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The Possibility of a VP Run and the 12th Amendment
While Trump’s allies argue that the 22nd Amendment only bars individuals from being elected to the presidency three times, another interpretation suggests that anyone ineligible for the presidency is also ineligible for the vice-presidency, according to the 12th Amendment. Trump himself has dismissed the idea of running for vice president, recognizing that his constitutional ineligibility would prevent such a move.
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Exploring Alternative Paths to the Presidency
Some of Trump’s supporters have proposed that he could become Speaker of the House and potentially ascend to the presidency through the Presidential Succession Act, which allows the Speaker to become president if both the president and vice president are incapacitated. However, this theory has not been tested and would likely face immediate legal challenges, with experts predicting that the Supreme Court would rule it unconstitutional.