US President Donald Trump conceded on Wednesday (October 2nd) that he is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term, even as he continued to push the idea of staying in power.
“If you read it, it’s pretty clear,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Japan to South Korea. “I’m not allowed to run. It’s bad.”
Johnson says ‘no way’ for third term
His comments came a day after House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the notion that Trump would extend his stay in the White House beyond two terms.
“I don’t see a path to it,” Johnson told reporters at the U.S. Capitol, adding that he had spoken with Trump about constitutional restrictions.
“He and I talked about the limitations of the constitution,” he said.
Johnson noted that changing the 22nd Amendment — which limits presidents to two terms — would require a lengthy amendment process involving Congress and the states.
“We will not take our foot off the gas pedal,” he added. “We’re going to deliver for the American people, and we’ve got a great ride ahead of us — it’s going to be a strong four years.”
Trump is leaving the door slightly open
While Trump acknowledged the restrictions, he still indicated he was keeping his options open.
“Based on what I’ve read, I don’t think I’m allowed to run,” he said. “So we’ll see what happens.
He has repeatedly suggested he might consider staying, with “Trump 2028” hats appearing as White House souvenirs. Former campaign chief Steve Bannon also revived talk of a hypothetical third term.
Trump rejects VP solution
Trump praised future GOP nominees such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance.
“All I can tell you is that we have a great group of people,” he said.
Asked if he would consider a run for vice president — a gap that some allies speculate could allow him to return to the Oval Office — Trump brushed off the idea.
“You should do it, but I wouldn’t,” he said, calling the notion “too cute.”
“I’d Like to Do It”
Earlier in the week, during his trip to Japan, the president reiterated his personal interest in a longer term in office.
“I would love to do it,” he said Monday.
