Donald Trump has been talking about serving a third term as president, which is currently not allowed by the U.S. Constitution. The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, limits a president to two full terms. Trump’s supporters and he himself have floated the idea of changing this rule to allow him to run again in 2028.
### The Concept of a Third Term
Trump often references Franklin D. Roosevelt, who served four terms before the 22nd Amendment was passed. Trump has suggested that he might feel entitled to more time in office, comparing himself to historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte and even calling himself a “king.” However, the Constitution stands in his way, and changing it would require a significant effort.
### How a Third Term Could Happen
For Trump to serve a third term, a constitutional amendment would need to be passed. This involves getting a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, or having two-thirds of state legislatures call for a national Constitutional Convention. After that, three-fourths of all state legislatures would need to ratify the amendment. This process is extremely difficult and has never been successfully used to change presidential term limits.
### The “Deep State” Narrative
Trump often talks about the “deep state,” which he believes is working against him. He has used this narrative to justify his actions and rally his supporters. If he were to serve a third term, he might use this time to further his agenda against what he perceives as the “deep state.” This could involve more aggressive actions against government agencies and officials he sees as opposed to him.
### Potential Consequences
The idea of Trump serving a third term is highly controversial. Many see it as a threat to democratic norms and the rule of law. Trump’s rhetoric and actions have already been criticized for undermining these principles, and a third term could exacerbate these concerns. Democrats and some Republicans have expressed opposition to any attempt to change the Constitution to allow for a third term.
### Conclusion
While Trump’s talk of a third term is more rhetorical than realistic, it reflects his ongoing challenge to established political norms. The Constitution’s term limits are in place to prevent the kind of power consolidation that Trump’s rhetoric sometimes suggests. Whether or not he can actually achieve a third term, his words and actions continue to shape the political landscape in significant ways.
