Former U.S. President Donald Trump has conceded that the U.S. Constitution prevents him from running for a third term in office, despite ongoing efforts by some of his allies to pave the way for such a bid. The acknowledgement, made while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Japan to South Korea, comes after months of speculation and veiled hints from Trump himself about a potential return to the White House in 2028.
“My poll numbers are through the roof, as you know. And based on what I’ve read, I don’t think I’m allowed to run,” Trump stated, referencing the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. “If you read the Constitution, it’s very clear. I’m not allowed to run. So, we’ll see what happens… It’s a shame.”
His comments, made early Wednesday local time, followed previous remarks where Trump had expressed a desire to seek a third presidential term, fueling the hopes of some of his most ardent supporters. Trump also alluded to potential successors within the Republican party, mentioning Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President J.D. Vance as strong contenders for the presidency in 2028.
Trump served his first term from 2017 to 2021 and began his second term on January 20th of this year. He has recently spoken increasingly about the calls he receives from supporters urging him to consider a third term, without explicitly dismissing the possibility. He has also been seen displaying red hats emblazoned with the slogan “Trump 2028,” further adding to the speculation.
**The Third Term Push: A Constitutional Challenge**
The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1951, explicitly prohibits any individual from being elected to the presidency more than twice. This amendment was a direct response to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s unprecedented four terms in office. The amendment states that “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once.”
Despite the seemingly clear constitutional barrier, some of Trump’s allies have been actively exploring avenues to circumvent the 22nd Amendment and allow him to run again. One prominent idea floated was the possibility of Trump running for Vice President in 2028, with Vice President Vance as the presidential nominee. However, Trump himself dismissed this scenario earlier this week.
The push for a third term has manifested in various forms. Some supporters have been seen wearing red hats with the “Trump 2028” slogan, signaling their desire for his return to power. Steve Bannon, Trump’s former chief strategist, has reportedly claimed that a plan is in place to secure a third term for Trump in 2028, although details of this plan remain unclear.
**Legislative Efforts and Advocacy Groups**
Adding to the complexity, Representative Andy Ogles, a Republican from Tennessee, has introduced a bill seeking a constitutional amendment that would allow Trump to run for a third term. The bill faces significant hurdles, requiring a two-thirds vote in both the House and the Senate, followed by ratification by three-quarters of the states.
For more information about Algeria, check our dedicated section.
Furthermore, an organization called “Republicans for National Renewal” has launched a campaign called “Project Third Term,” urging people to encourage Republican legislators to support Ogles’ bill. Shane Trejo, the organization’s grassroots director, is reportedly leading this effort. Trejo told the Wall Street Journal that the organization’s policy team is preparing a “white paper” outlining the reasons why presidents should be allowed to serve three terms. Excerpts from the paper suggest that it will argue for the potential benefits of allowing “truly exceptional leaders” to remain in office long enough to achieve their nation-building goals. The group intends to distribute the paper to Republican legislators.
The organization also plans to host an event in December on the sidelines of the “Turning Point USA” conference in Phoenix to promote Project Third Term.
**The Constitutional Debate**
The debate over a potential third term for Trump has reignited discussions about the wisdom and relevance of the 22nd Amendment. Supporters of the amendment argue that it safeguards against the concentration of power in one individual and prevents the emergence of a potential dictatorship. They point to the historical precedent set by George Washington, who voluntarily stepped down after two terms, establishing a tradition of peaceful transfer of power.
Critics, on the other hand, argue that the amendment unduly restricts the electorate’s choice and prevents them from re-electing a popular leader who they believe is best suited to lead the country. They contend that voters should have the freedom to choose their leader, regardless of how many terms they have already served. The arguments presented by “Republicans for National Renewal” reflect this sentiment, suggesting that exceptional leaders should be allowed to continue serving if they are deemed necessary for the nation’s progress.
**Implications for Algeria and the Region**
The ongoing debate surrounding a potential third term for Trump holds implications for Algeria and the broader region. U.S. foreign policy can shift dramatically depending on who occupies the White House. A return of Trump to the presidency could signal a change in U.S. engagement with North Africa, potentially impacting trade relations, security cooperation, and diplomatic initiatives. Algeria, in particular, has sought to maintain a balanced relationship with global powers, and a shift in U.S. policy could require careful recalibration of its foreign policy strategy.
More broadly, the debate underscores the enduring importance of constitutional principles and the rule of law, values that are relevant not only in the United States but also in countries around the world striving to build stable and democratic institutions. The U.S. example, whether positive or negative, often resonates internationally, influencing political discourse and shaping perceptions of democratic governance.
While Trump’s recent acknowledgement suggests he recognizes the constitutional constraints, the continued efforts by some of his allies to explore avenues for a third term highlight the enduring influence of the former president within the Republican party and the ongoing debate about the future of American democracy. The unfolding situation warrants close observation, both for its domestic implications and its potential impact on the global stage.
