Here’s a breakdown of the question “Donald Trump 2028: Could the US president really go for a third term?” — what’s being said, what’s legally possible, and what the latest signals reveal.
What’s happening now
There’s been growing chatter in U.S. politics and media about the possibility of Donald Trump seeking a “third term” in 2028, either directly or via alternative routes. Trump himself has made comments that keep the idea alive. For example, during a recent overseas trip he said:
“It’s too bad I’m not allowed to run.” AP News+1
He has also, in earlier interviews, said he is “not joking” about the prospect of another term and mentioned that “there are methods” could hypothetically allow it. Politico+2PolitiFact+2
On the legislative side, one of his allies in Congress introduced a resolution to amend the Twenty‑second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which currently bars anyone from being elected president more than twice. CNBC+1
So while no formal campaign is announced, the messaging and aspirations are in motion.
What the law says
The key legal barrier is the 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951. It states:
“No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice…” NBC New York+1
Because Trump has already been elected twice (in 2016 and again in 2024/2025), the amendment on its face disqualifies him from being elected a third time. Legal scholars are overwhelmingly clear about this interpretation. The Washington Post+2NBC New York+2
Some speculative “loopholes” have been discussed:
- One idea: Trump could run as vice-president (or his ally runs), then resign so he ascends to the presidency via succession. But the Twelfth Amendment bars someone who is ineligible to be president from being vice‐president, complicating that path. Firstpost+1
- Another: Amend or repeal the 22nd Amendment to allow a third term. This is legally possible in theory but practically extremely difficult: it would require 2/3 of both houses of Congress and then ratification by 38 states (3/4 of the states). CNBC+1
In short: the law does not currently allow a third “election” term for Trump.
What the political signals reveal
Despite the legal barrier, the political environment is stirring:
- Trump and his allies have marketed “Trump 2028” merchandise, signalling intent or at least brand continuity. The Guardian+1
- Some hardline supporters, like Steve Bannon, have publicly declared that “there’s a plan” for a third term. The Independent+1
- Simultaneously, Trump has issued statements acknowledging the constitutional limit: he said it’s “pretty clear” he’s not allowed to run again. Business Standard+1
This dichotomy suggests a political strategy of keeping the narrative alive (mobilise the base) while also signalling to institutional players (Congress, courts, states) that any major change would require substantial process.
Where the realistic paths lie
Given the current legal and political dynamics, here are the realistic scenarios:
- Status quo: Trump runs no further than his current term, adheres to the two‐term limit, and uses his influence to support a chosen successor in 2028. This path aligns with legal clarity and institutional stability.
- Amendment path: A constitutional amendment is successfully passed to allow a third term or remove the limit. This is extremely unlikely in the near term given institutional hurdles and partisan division.
- Alternative route (succession loophole): A vice‐president candidate wins, then resigns so Trump ascends via succession. While theoretically discussed, it has major legal uncertainty and would almost certainly face immediate court challenge. Firstpost+1
Thus, the most credible outcome for now is the status quo—with rhetoric about “2028” energized for branding and recruitment, but with the constitutional barrier firmly in place.
Why this matters
- Institutional integrity: A president seeking a third elected term would directly challenge constitutional limits that are foundational to U.S. democracy.
- Precedent: The 22nd Amendment was adopted after Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms, in order to prevent excessive accumulation of power. The Independent+1
- Political risk: Pursuing an unconstitutional route could trigger major legal and constitutional crises, eroding public trust and destabilising governance norms.
- Branding and mobilisation: Even if legally barred, the “Trump 2028” narrative is being used to galvanise supporters, shape party dynamics, influence future candidates, and keep Trump at the centre of the Republican Party’s identity.