In a weekend interview that has sparked fresh legal and political debate, along with liberal panic, President Donald Trump suggested he might consider running for a third term. Speaking to NBC News’s Kristen Welker, Trump stated that he’s “not joking” about the possibility, even though the U.S. Constitution limits presidents to two terms.
During a Sunday phone call, Trump hinted that people are encouraging him to stay in office longer, saying, “A lot of people want me to do it.” Still, he acknowledged it’s too soon to say anything definite, adding, “It’s very early in the administration.”
When asked if he seriously intended to seek a third term, Trump confirmed, “I’m not joking,” but clarified that it’s far too early to make that decision. He hinted at potential ways this could happen, including a scenario where Vice President JD Vance could be elected and then transfer power back to Trump—though he didn’t provide specifics and called that just one idea.
Trump: I have had more people ask me to have a third term which in a way is a fourth term because the other election was totally rigged. pic.twitter.com/sJX8mVBbN4
— Acyn (@Acyn) March 31, 2025
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951 after Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms, clearly states that no person can be elected president more than twice. The Constitution also bans those who cannot be elected to the presidency from serving as vice president. Still, Trump has made similar comments before. After winning the 2024 election, he reportedly told House Republicans, “I think I’m not allowed to run again,” while also questioning whether leftover campaign funds might still be used by him.
Though Trump’s remarks remain vague, they are likely to draw serious attention from constitutional scholars, lawmakers, and political watchdogs. Whether his comments are just speculation or signal a real plan to challenge the rules is still uncertain.
