Recently re-elected for a second term, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has suggested to House Republicans that he might consider pursuing an unprecedented third term.
Known for making bold statements, Trump said, “I suspect I won’t be running again unless you (supporters) say otherwise,” stirring excitement among his audience at a Washington, D.C., hotel event ahead of his meeting with President Joe Biden.
While the U.S. Constitution restricts any president to two terms, questions have arisen about how secure these limitations are. Here’s an exploration of whether Donald Trump could feasibly seek a third term in 2028.
The 22nd Amendment: A Two-Term Limit
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, limits U.S. presidents to two terms, whether consecutive or non-consecutive. It was passed after Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected to four terms, with lawmakers agreeing that no president should exceed two terms to preserve democracy.
The amendment states: “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice,” and specifies restrictions on acting presidents who serve more than two years of another president’s term.
Can the 22nd Amendment Be Repealed?
Repealing or amending the Constitution is a lengthy, complex process. First, a proposed amendment would require approval by a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives (290 out of 435 members) and the Senate (67 out of 100 senators). After this, three-fourths of the states (38 of 50) would need to ratify it.
Given these steep requirements, legal experts and political analysts consider it nearly impossible for Trump to gain enough support to repeal the 22nd Amendment.
According to a Stanford University law professor interviewed by Vox, “No, there are none. This will be his last run for President.”
Historical Context of the 22nd Amendment
The 22nd Amendment came into effect following Roosevelt’s unprecedented four-term presidency, which ended in 1945. Lawmakers from both parties felt it essential to establish a two-term limit, citing the example set by the nation’s first president, George Washington.
Is Repeal Possible?
While the process to repeal an amendment is not entirely impossible, the robust checks and balances make it highly improbable. In addition to the significant congressional support needed, any amendment must pass through a supermajority of states, a hurdle that has rarely been crossed.
Given these challenges, it’s safe to say that any attempt by Trump to pursue a third term would face formidable constitutional barriers, keeping the two-term limit firmly in place.