During an interview on CNBC’s Squawk Box, President Donald Trump mentioned that he would “probably not” pursue a third term in office, even though he showcased significant poll results.
The 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prevents any person from being elected president more than twice, which protects Trump in this case, even though his two terms were not consecutive.
Why This News Matters
Some of Trump’s loyal supporters have suggested the idea of a third term for him, despite it being against the Constitution and without any clear legal path to make it happen. Any attempt to extend his time in the Oval Office could lead to a major constitutional crisis, something unheard of in recent U.S. history.
The last individual to serve more than two terms was Franklin D. Roosevelt, who held the presidency from 1933 to 1945. His unprecedented four terms prompted the introduction of the 22nd Amendment.
Key Takeaways
In the same interview, Trump stated that he received the “highest vote in the history of Texas” and believed his vote percentages were a “record that won’t be beaten unless I run again.”
When journalist Becky Quick asked him if he planned to run again, Trump replied, “No, probably not.” He added, “I’d like to run. I have the best poll numbers I’ve ever had.”
Can Trump Really Compete for a Third Term?
Former federal prosecutor Gene Rossi explained to Newsweek that Trump likely can’t run again. If he selected to start a presidential campaign, he could end up facing lawsuits demanding an injunction against his candidacy.
That said, Rossi noted there are legal strategies Trump could potentially explore to regain presidency. In March, Trump shared with NBC News that he had “methods” in mind to fulfill a third term, making it clear he wasn’t joking. Allies like Steve Bannon echoed similar thoughts about ways Trump could remain in power.
Rossi elaborated, saying, “There is a path for him to be president again after his second term concludes. The approach would involve being on the ballot with the Republican candidate, presumably JD Vance. Trump could step in as the vice presidential pick, and if Vance secures the victory, rooms would be made for Trump to take the top spot.”
Highlighting the restriction that prohibits any president from being elected more than twice, Rossi mentioned that this workaround could mean that Trump technically would not be elected to a second term.
Interestingly, some Republicans have even talked about introducing a constitutional amendment that would permit Trump to vie for a third term. Even so, getting it through would demand a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate, alongside ratification by three-fourths of the state legislatures. Given the slim margins for Republicans in Congress, the amendment is likely to face major hurdles.
The_ 22nd Amendment states: “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice…” This has already established a firm boundary around presidential terms since its enactment.
Public Reactions
Senator Rand Paul, a Republican from Kentucky, expressed last week on Fox Business: “This could discourage highly-qualified and s ding individuals from pursuing official positions. One aspect of the bill, in particular, will indeed restrict future presidents from trading stocks and require a complete divestment from all holdings—meaning a future president, possibly Trump, would need to relinquish everything.”
Former federal prosecutor Gene Rossi shared with Newsweek: “Only under Trump would we encounter a president contemplating a third-term scenario. We’re certainly in a uniquely unusual environment.”
The Road Ahead
As it stands, Trump has yet to make any formal announcements about running for a third term. Laundry lists of potential obstacles and legal ramifications are likely to await anyone thinking about setting foot on that path again.
Update 8/5/25, 12:10 p.m. ET: This article has received additional updates and information.
