US President Donald Trump made headlines again on Sunday after he suggested he might try for a third term, despite the constitutional two-term limit set by the 22nd Amendment.
“There are ways you could do it,” Trump said in a phone interview with News Channel. He added, “I’m not joking.” Later, when speaking to reporters, he claimed that many people want him to run again.
“I’ve had more people ask me to have a third term. In a way, it would be my fourth term because the 2020 election was rigged,” Trump said. However, he also mentioned that he wasn’t focused on a third term right now since there is still a long time before then.
Can Trump Legally Run for a Third Term?
The 22nd Amendment, passed in 1951 after Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms, states that a president can only be elected twice. Any attempt by Trump to extend his time in office would likely face legal challenges.
When asked if he could return to the White House through his vice president, JD Vance, Trump responded, “That’s one option. But there are others too.” He did not give further details.
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Is There a Legal Loophole?
Historically, nine US presidents have taken office without being elected because they were vice presidents who stepped in after the president’s death or resignation. However, it’s unclear if a two-term president could become vice president and later take over again.
The 22nd Amendment prevents a president from being elected more than twice, but it doesn’t clearly state whether they can serve as vice president. Meanwhile, the 12th Amendment says that anyone “constitutionally ineligible” to be president cannot be vice president. If taken to the Supreme Court, the ruling could decide if Trump could return by running as vice president first.
Political Reactions: A Threat to Democracy or a Leader America Needs?
Trump’s comments have sparked mixed reactions. Democrats strongly oppose the idea, calling it a threat to democracy.
“This is another attempt to take over the government and weaken democracy. If Republicans believe in the Constitution, they should stand against this,” said Democratic Representative Daniel Goldman.
On the other hand, some of Trump’s supporters believe he should serve another term.
“America needs him. Things are going well, and if he doesn’t continue, we could go backward,” said Kayla Thompson, a former paralegal from Wisconsin.
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As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether Trump will seriously push for a third term and whether the law would allow it.
