President Donald Trump refuses to clearly rule out seeking a third term in office.
He suggests strong support keeps future possibilities open despite constitutional term limits.
President Donald Trump has declined to clearly rule out a potential third-term run, even though the U.S. Constitution restricts presidents to two terms in office.
While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Monday, October 27, during his trip to Tokyo, President Trump was asked about remarks from his ally Steve Bannon, who recently stated that Trump would return as president in 2028. When questioned about whether he would attempt to overturn the constitutional term limit through legal action, Trump said he had not given it serious thought, adding that his approval numbers are “stronger than ever.”
Pressed for clarity on who might succeed him if he did not pursue another campaign, Trump referenced Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He suggested that with the right momentum, he would be difficult to beat, remarking that his support across the country remains extremely high.
The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution makes it clear that no individual can be elected president more than twice. Still, Trump hinted that his achievements should keep the conversation open. He claimed his administration has prevented widespread conflict and saved lives globally, arguing that such results matter most to the American people.
When directly asked whether a third term was off the table, Trump gave a vague response, saying it was up to others to decide how his future should unfold. He reiterated that the Republican Party has a strong lineup of potential candidates while taking a swipe at Democrats, saying they do not possess a similar bench of leadership.
Bannon, who previously served as Trump’s chief strategist, told The Economist last week that efforts were already underway to secure Trump another stay in the White House after 2028, insisting there are “options” to pursue despite the constitutional restriction. He promised further details when the time is right.
This is not the first time Trump has hinted at the idea. Shortly after returning to office in 2024, he jokingly told Republican lawmakers that continued success could prompt calls for him to remain in power beyond two terms.
