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President Donald Trump did not rule out the possibility of seeking a third term in the White House, despite the 22nd Amendment explicitly prohibiting it. In an exclusive interview with NBC News on Sunday, Trump suggested there were ways around the two-term limit, clarifying that he was “not joking.”
“A lot of people want me to do it,” Trump said in a Sunday morning phone call. “But, I mean, I basically tell them we have a long way to go, you know, it’s very early in the administration.”
When pressed on whether he actually wanted another term, Trump responded, “I like working.”
Asked to clarify if he was serious, Trump doubled down: “I’m not joking. But I’m not—it is far too early to think about it.”
Potential Loopholes for a Third Term?
Trump hinted at possible strategies for staying in office beyond 2029, stating, “There are methods which you could do it.”
One scenario floated by NBC News was that Vice President JD Vance could run for office in 2028 and then resign, allowing Trump to assume the presidency. Trump acknowledged this as “one” possible method.
“But there are others, too,” he added, though he refused to elaborate when asked for another example.
Would a Third Term Even Be Possible?
The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly limits presidents to two terms. Overturning this restriction would require an amendment, which would need either:
- A two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate, or
- A constitutional convention called by two-thirds of the states, with ratification from three-quarters of the states.
Both processes are considered extremely difficult and unlikely.
Yet, some Trump allies are already exploring ways to extend his presidency. Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) introduced a resolution to eliminate presidential term limits, allowing Trump to run again.
Meanwhile, former Trump strategist Steve Bannon predicted Trump “will run and win again in 2028” and claimed there were “a couple of alternatives” to navigate the two-term limit.
Trump Embraces “King” Comparisons
As speculation swirls over his future ambitions, Trump’s White House has fueled the discussion with symbolic messaging.
After his administration blocked congestion pricing in New York City, the White House posted an image of Trump wearing a crown, referencing a fake magazine cover. The post quoted a past Trump comment from Truth Social:
“LONG LIVE THE KING!”
Will Trump Actually Try for a Third Term?
While Trump has made similar comments in the past, many Republicans have dismissed them as jokes or deliberate trolling of his critics. However, his latest remarks—coupled with real discussions among allies—suggest the idea is being taken more seriously than before.
Whether Trump genuinely pursues a third term or simply enjoys stirring the debate, his latest comments ensure the 2028 election remains a hot topic—even before his second term is halfway through.
