Trump Says He’s Serious About a Third Term—Despite Constitutional Limits
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred controversy again by saying he’s “not joking” about running for a third term. While speaking in a phone interview with NBC News, Trump made it clear that the idea is not just talk—even though he admitted it’s too early to make any real plans.
When asked if his past remarks about a third term were serious, Trump replied:
“No, I’m not joking. I’m not joking. It is far too early to think about it.”
When pressed further on how it could be done, Trump gave a vague answer:
“There are methods which you could do it, as you know,”
he said, without giving more details.
Can a President Serve Three Terms?
The short answer: not under current law.
The U.S. Constitution’s 22nd Amendment clearly states that no person can be elected president more than twice. To change this, lawmakers would need to pass a new amendment. That requires:
A two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate
Approval by three-fourths of U.S. states
This process is long, difficult, and highly unlikely in today’s political climate. The official National Archives website outlines how constitutional amendments are passed.
Bannon Says “We’re Working On It”
In March 2025, Trump’s longtime adviser Steve Bannon told NewsNation that they are exploring the possibility of Trump running again in 2028. Bannon said:
> “We’re working on it,”
and hinted at ways to challenge or reinterpret the current term limit rules.
There’s no official plan yet, but the idea has sparked debate across the political world.
Has It Ever Happened Before?
Yes—once.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms, starting in 1933. He won his third and fourth terms during the Great Depression and World War II. His extended presidency is detailed in the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library.
After his death, Congress passed the 22nd Amendment in 1951 to prevent future presidents from serving more than two terms.
Before Roosevelt, U.S. presidents followed a two-term tradition started by George Washington, who stepped down in 1796. You can read more about this tradition at Mount Vernon’s official website.
What Happens If Trump Tries?
If Trump seriously attempts a third run, it would create a major legal and political battle. The courts, Congress, and voters would all play a role.
His comments may be strategic or designed to energize his base. But one thing is clear: Trump still knows how to grab the spotlight and keep people guessing.
For now, he says there are no immediate plans. But this story is far from over.
