U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed any possibility of running for a third term, acknowledging that the U.S. Constitution prevents presidents from serving more than two terms.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday while travelling from Japan to South Korea, Trump said, “It’s too bad” that he cannot seek another term due to constitutional limits. “If you read it, it’s pretty clear,” he added.
His comments came a day after House Speaker Mike Johnson said it would be “impossible” for Trump to remain in office beyond two terms. Johnson, a close Republican ally of the president, confirmed that he had discussed the matter with Trump and that both understood the constitutional restrictions.
“The Constitution’s 22nd Amendment doesn’t allow a third presidential term,” Johnson explained, adding that changing it would require a long, complex process involving Congress and state approval.
Still, Johnson affirmed his support for Trump, saying, “We’re not taking our foot off the gas. We’re going to deliver for the American people, and he’ll have four strong years.”
Trump has occasionally joked about serving longer, and hats reading “Trump 2028” have been distributed as keepsakes to visitors at the White House. His former campaign manager, Stephen Bannon, also recently revived discussions about a potential third term.
During his trip, Trump praised the Republican Party’s future prospects, mentioning Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance as strong figures for the next election.
“All I can tell you is that we have a great group of people,” he said.
