WASHINGTON, USA — Less than a month into his second term, President Donald Trump again teased the idea of seeking a constitutionally prohibited third term, a remark that reignited political debate over presidential term limits.
Speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast, held at the Washington Hilton on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Trump alluded to the possibility of extending his presidency beyond 2028.
While addressing attendees, he referenced a conversation in which he was reminded that he could not run again.
“Somebody said, ‘I don’t think you can,’” Trump said with a chuckle. “Oooh! Heh-heh. No, I want to be with you regardless. And it’s an honour.”
The National Prayer Breakfast featured two events—one at Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol and another at the Hilton.
It was during his remarks at the second gathering that Trump made his comments about a potential third term.
While the president’s remarks appeared lighthearted, they come amid ongoing discussions among his allies about the 22nd Amendment, which bars presidents from serving more than two terms.
Push to Overturn Term Limits
Trump has previously floated the idea that term limits could be subject to change.
On January 23, Republican Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee introduced an amendment to repeal the 22nd Amendment, a move that, if successful, would allow Trump to seek a third term.
The amendment, ratified in 1951, was designed to prevent any president from serving more than two elected terms, a restriction that was established following Franklin D. Roosevelt’s unprecedented four-term presidency.
Conservative lawmakers have occasionally discussed repealing the amendment, but the idea has never gained significant traction in Congress.
To succeed, such a repeal would require a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate, as well as ratification by three-fourths of the states.
A History of Hinting
This is not the first time Trump has suggested that term limits may not apply to him.
Throughout his first term, he repeatedly joked about serving beyond eight years.
He has also praised leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping, who eliminated term limits in his country.
While no formal effort has been made by the Trump administration to challenge the amendment, legal scholars say any attempt would face steep constitutional hurdles.
Recent discussions about potential ways for Trump to extend his hold on power have ranged from pushing for an amendment repeal to running for vice president and ascending to the presidency through succession.
However, the 12th Amendment explicitly bars individuals ineligible for the presidency from serving as vice president.
Political Fallout
Trump’s remarks have already drawn reactions from both parties.
Some Democrats swiftly condemned his comments, arguing they reflect a broader disregard for democratic norms.
“There is no ambiguity here. The Constitution is clear—two terms, no more,” Representative Jamie Raskin, Democrat of Maryland, said in a statement.
“Floating this idea is dangerous, and every American should take it seriously.”
Republicans, meanwhile, have been largely quiet on Trump’s remarks.
While some members of the party have previously entertained discussions about repealing the 22nd Amendment, others see the suggestion as more rhetorical than actionable.
