The question of whether Donald Trump can seek a third term as President of the United States has sparked widespread speculation, fueled by his own comments, merchandise like “Trump 2028” caps, and proposals from some Republican allies. However, the clear answer under current U.S. law is no—he cannot legally run for or be elected to a third presidential term.
The limitation stems directly from the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1951. It states: “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” This amendment was enacted in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four terms in office, aiming to prevent any individual from holding the presidency indefinitely. Trump served his first term from 2017 to 2021 and began his second non-consecutive term in January 2025, meaning he has already been elected president twice. By the end of his current term in January 2029, he will be constitutionally barred from running again in the 2028 election.
Trump has occasionally mused about the idea, expressing that he “would love to do it” and noting his strong poll numbers. In interviews and aboard Air Force One, he has acknowledged the constitutional barrier, stating it is “pretty clear” that he is “not allowed to run” and calling it “too bad.” He has explicitly ruled out scenarios like running for vice president in 2028 and then ascending to the presidency, despite some supporters floating such theories. Legal experts emphasize that the 12th Amendment further closes this door, prohibiting anyone ineligible for the presidency from serving as vice president.
Proposals to change the rules have surfaced. In January 2025, Republican Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee introduced a House Joint Resolution to amend the 22nd Amendment, allowing a person to be elected president up to three times (with restrictions on consecutive terms). This measure appeared tailored to benefit Trump due to his non-consecutive terms, while potentially excluding others like Barack Obama or Bill Clinton. However, amending the Constitution is an extraordinarily difficult process: it requires a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate (or a constitutional convention called by two-thirds of states), followed by ratification by three-fourths (38) of the states. House Speaker Mike Johnson has stated there is “no path” for such a change in time for 2028, describing it as a cumbersome, potentially decade-long endeavor unlikely amid political polarization.
Other speculative “loopholes”—such as serving as Speaker of the House and succeeding upon a resignation, or invoking extraordinary powers—have been dismissed by constitutional scholars as implausible and contrary to the amendment’s clear intent. Courts would almost certainly uphold the two-term limit if challenged.
In essence, while Trump’s influence on American politics may endure beyond 2029—through his policies, endorsements, or the broader “Trumpism” movement—the presidency itself remains strictly limited to two elected terms. The 22nd Amendment stands as a firm barrier, and no credible mechanism exists under current law for Trump to secure a third term in 2028.
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