President Donald Trump reaffirmed on Sunday that he is serious about the possibility of seeking a third term, despite the constitutional restrictions that currently prevent a U.S. president from serving more than two terms.
“A lot of people want me to do it,” Trump told NBC News, adding, “I’m not joking.”
Although he acknowledged that it’s “far too early” to make any decisions, his comments have reignited debates over whether a third-term bid could even be legally possible.
Would a Third Term Be Legal?
Under the 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, no person can be elected president more than twice. This amendment was introduced after Franklin D. Roosevelt served four consecutive terms.
However, some lawmakers are already pushing for change. Shortly after Trump took office in January, Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) proposed a constitutional amendment that would allow presidents to serve a third term.
To pass, such an amendment would require:
✅ Two-thirds of Congress to approve it.
✅ Three-fourths of state legislatures to ratify it.
The likelihood of such an amendment passing remains extremely low, given the political landscape.
Trump Hints at Alternative Paths to a Third Term
When pressed on how he could legally seek a third term, Trump remained vague but suggested that there are ways to make it happen.
NBC’s Kristen Welker posed a hypothetical scenario:
“What if someone like President [J.D.] Vance ran and then passed the baton to you?”
Trump responded, “Well, that’s one. But there are others, too.”
When asked to elaborate, he simply replied, “No.”
His comments have led to speculation about whether he could attempt a legal loophole, such as running as vice president, though the 12th Amendment explicitly states that anyone constitutionally ineligible for the presidency cannot serve as vice president.
Why Would Trump Want a Third Term?
Citing his historic popularity among Republicans, Trump argued that his support justifies considering a third-term run.
“I have the highest poll numbers of any Republican for the last 100 years,” he said. “We’re in the high 70s in many polls, in the real polls.”
When asked why he still wants the job, Trump kept it simple:
“Well, I like working.”
Could a Third Term Actually Happen?
While Trump’s comments may fire up his supporters, the legal and political barriers to a third term remain formidable. Any attempt to extend his presidency would likely face strong opposition, legal challenges, and constitutional roadblocks.
For now, Trump insists he’s focused on his current term—but his remarks signal that the debate over presidential term limits is far from over.
