Trump does not rule out seeking third term - but says he will not use VP loophole

October 27, 2025

During a trip to Asia aboard Air Force One, President Donald Trump discussed the possibility of pursuing a third presidential term, stating he would "love to do it," though he dismissed the idea of running as vice president in 2028 as a constitutional workaround. The 79-year-old president acknowledged that the 22nd Amendment prohibits third terms but suggested he might be constitutionally permitted to run as vice president, an option he rejected as inappropriate. Trump praised potential Republican successors including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while former adviser Steve Bannon claimed a "plan" exists to secure Trump another term.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump
Vice President JD Vance
Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Former Trump strategist Steve Bannon
California Governor Gavin Newsom
Former Vice President Kamala Harris
Democrats (as a party)
Republicans (as a party)

What action is being taken

President Trump is traveling in Asia and speaking with reporters about his political future. California Governor Gavin Newsom is giving serious thought to a presidential bid. Former Vice President Kamala Harris is considering whether to run again.

Why it matters

This matters because it raises fundamental questions about adherence to constitutional limits on presidential power, specifically the 22nd Amendment's two-term restriction. The speculation creates uncertainty about the 2028 election and tests the boundaries of democratic norms, while also shaping the strategic calculations of both Republican and Democratic potential candidates who are considering their own presidential ambitions.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC