President Donald Trump acknowledged on Wednesday that the U.S. Constitution prohibits him from running for a third term, stating it is “pretty clear” he is not allowed to do so, even as he expressed regret and highlighted his high approval ratings.
Trump made these remarks while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One during his flight to South Korea for a regional summit. He said, “Based on what I read, I guess I’m not allowed to run so we’ll see what happens,” and added, “If you read it, it’s pretty clear, I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad. But we have a lot of great people.” This conversation occurred amid ongoing speculation about his political future, with Trump noting he has “the highest poll numbers that I’ve ever had.”
The president’s comments were partly a response to House Speaker Mike Johnson, who had earlier addressed the issue publicly. Johnson, a key Republican ally, told reporters on Tuesday that he discussed the constitutional constraints with Trump and sees no feasible path for a third term. “It’s been a great run. But I think the president knows, and he and I have talked about, the constrictions of the Constitution,” Johnson said, emphasizing that amending the Constitution would be a lengthy process beyond Trump’s tenure.
The constitutional barrier stems from the 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, which explicitly limits presidents to two elected terms. This amendment was enacted after Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four terms to safeguard democratic principles by preventing any individual from holding the presidency indefinitely. Trump’s acknowledgment aligns with this legal framework, though he has previously mused about the possibility in interviews and public appearances.
Speculation about a third term had been fueled by allies such as Steve Bannon, a former Trump adviser, who claimed “there is a plan” for Trump to run again. However, White House officials and other Republicans have dismissed these assertions, with Johnson characterizing the concerns as “hair on fire” reactions from critics. Trump himself ruled out one potential loophole—running as vice-president to later assume the presidency—calling it “too cute” and something the public would not accept.
With Trump effectively closing the door on a third term, attention now shifts to potential Republican candidates for the 2028 election. Trump mentioned Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as “great people” who could lead in the future, signaling a transition in focus within the party. This clarification helps reduce political uncertainty and sets the stage for upcoming electoral dynamics.
In summary, Trump’s statements underscore the resilience of constitutional norms in the United States, balancing personal ambition with institutional limits. The event highlights ongoing political tensions while reinforcing the stability of democratic processes as the country looks ahead to future leadership changes.