US President Donald Trump has fueled speculation about serving a third term, despite the constitutional two-term limit. In an interview last week, he suggested that there are “methods” to make it possible. The 22nd Amendment prevents presidents from being elected more than twice, but it does not necessarily prohibit somebody from taking on the presidency through succession. That has fueled speculation regarding possible legal loopholes.
A Constitutional Loophole?
The 22nd Amendment, which became law in 1951, restricts a president to serving two terms. But some legal analysts say that it only prevents elections and not a former president from assuming the office by any other means. Donald Trump suggested one such scenario—his Vice President, JD Vance, might emerge victorious in 2028 and step down soon after assuming the office, with Trump taking power once again.
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This theory also has legal challenges. The 12th Amendment makes it clear that no one disqualified from being President can hold the vice presidency. Some academics claim this would exclude Donald Trump from running as a VP, rendering the strategy impossible. The Republican-friendly Supreme Court would make the final decision.
Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers have proposed amending the Constitution to allow a third term. A resolution by Rep. Andy Ogles suggested a three-term limit, provided terms are not consecutive. This could allow Donald Trump to run again in 2028, but with strong Democratic opposition, the amendment is unlikely to pass.
Republican Divide Over a Third Term
Donald Trump’s comments have divided Republicans. Allies such as Steve Bannon say Trump will somehow manage to run again. Others, such as Sen. Markwayne Mullin, oppose amending the Constitution.
Trump continued to stoke rumors, uploading photos of himself with a crown and proclaiming, “LONG LIVE THE KING!” Hismix of humor and genuine ambition sustains the conversation. Whether by legal or political means, will he be stopped, is far from clear, but the dialogue regarding a third term for Trump is hardly in its final moments.
