GYEONGJU, South Korea — U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged Wednesday that the U.S. Constitution prevents him from seeking a third term but suggested he would like to continue serving, calling it “too bad” that he’s not allowed to run again.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Japan to South Korea, Trump said, “If you read it, it’s pretty clear. I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad.”
His comments come after House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed that the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution clearly bars any president from serving more than two elected terms.
“I don’t see the path for that,” Johnson told reporters Tuesday at the U.S. Capitol, adding that he discussed the matter with Trump, who “understands the constrictions of the Constitution.”
The Louisiana Republican, a close Trump ally, noted that repealing the two-term limit would require a constitutional amendment, a process that could take a decade or more and require approval by two-thirds of Congress and three-quarters of the states.
“We’re going to deliver for the American people, and we’ve got a great run ahead of us — he’ll have four strong years,” Johnson said, dismissing critics’ fears of Trump attempting to extend his presidency.
Trump Keeps the Idea Alive — and the Conversation Going
Trump, however, appeared less definitive about ruling out future possibilities. “Based on what I read, I guess I’m not allowed to run,” he said, adding with a grin, “So we’ll see what happens.”
He also dismissed as “too cute” a speculative suggestion that he could run as vice president and then assume office through succession, though he joked that such a scenario might technically be allowed.
In recent weeks, “Trump 2028” hats have reportedly circulated among Trump’s visitors and allies, while former campaign chief Steve Bannon has floated the idea of a “third Trump term” on his podcast.
During his trip to Japan earlier this week, Trump told reporters he “would love to do it,” while naming Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance as “great options” for the next Republican presidential race.
“All I can tell you is we have a great group of people,” Trump said.
Pushing Presidential Boundaries
The remarks come amid growing concern among observers about Trump’s willingness to test the limits of executive power. He has deployed National Guard troops to several cities over the objections of governors, accepted private donations to fund military operations and White House projects, and selectively influenced spending decisions during the ongoing government shutdown.
Speaker Johnson brushed off concerns about Trump’s rhetoric, saying the president enjoys “trolling the Democrats” and that critics’ “hair is on fire for no reason.”