US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that the Constitution bars him from running for a third term, despite repeatedly hinting at the idea in recent months.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday, Trump said it was “pretty clear” he was not permitted to seek another term, describing it as a “sad thing” given his current level of public support.
The statement followed remarks from House Speaker Mike Johnson a day earlier, who said he saw no constitutional path for Trump to serve beyond two terms.
The comments signal the end of months of speculation about whether Trump would challenge the two-term limit set by the 22nd Amendment.
Constitution makes third term unattainable
Under the 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951 after Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency, no person can be elected to the office of President more than twice.
Johnson noted that amending the Constitution would take years, requiring a two-thirds vote in both chambers of Congress and ratification by three-quarters of US states.
“I don’t see the path for that,” Johnson said, adding that the administration would still continue its political momentum despite the legal barrier.
Trump’s concession confirms what constitutional scholars have long maintained: that the legal framework offers no immediate way to extend a presidency beyond two terms.
‘Trump 2028’ hats and speculation
Despite these limits, Trump has fuelled speculation about a potential third bid by displaying “Trump 2028” hats earlier this month during a meeting with congressional leaders about the government shutdown.
The hats sparked public debate over whether he intended to test constitutional boundaries or simply energise supporters ahead of the next election cycle.
The idea was also bolstered by longtime ally Steve Bannon, who recently told the Economist that people should “get accommodated” to the possibility of a third term.
He suggested there could be “different alternatives” to challenge the 22nd Amendment. His remarks intensified media attention and political discussion around Trump’s future ambitions.
Trump rules out vice presidential workaround
Earlier this week, Trump dismissed a theoretical workaround that some supporters floated online—running as a vice presidential candidate and then assuming office if the elected president stepped down.
He called the suggestion “too cute” and emphasised that the Republican Party had several capable candidates, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
His response effectively shut down the last remaining rumour about possible routes to an extended presidency.
Trump’s team, meanwhile, is expected to redirect its efforts toward ensuring Republican dominance in Congress ahead of the next election cycle.
Political focus shifts to 2028 campaign influence
Trump’s popularity within the Republican base remains high, positioning him as a kingmaker for 2028 rather than a contender. Analysts suggest his endorsement power could shape primary outcomes and influence the party’s future leadership.
With constitutional and legislative paths closed, Trump’s role is likely to evolve from candidate to strategist in shaping Republican policy and candidate selection for the next decade.
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