Donald Trump, the president of the United States, acknowledged that the Constitution prohibits him from standing for office again when his current term expires in January 2029, seemingly closing the door on a third term.
"It's quite obvious if you read it: I can't run. In contrast to previous remarks in which he refuses to categorically rule out another bid, Trump told reporters onboard Air Force One on Wednesday en route to South Korea, "It's too bad."
Although the U.S. Constitution's 22nd Amendment prohibits anybody from winning the presidency a third time, Trump has openly entertained the notion since winning a second term in November.
Speaker of the U.S. House Mike Johnson stated on Tuesday that he had spoken with Trump about the matter and came to the conclusion that there was no practical way to change the Constitution in time to grant a third term. "It's been a great run," Johnson remarked. "But I think the president knows, and he and I have talked about, the constrictions of the Constitution."
Johnson pointed out that ratification by three fourths of the states and two thirds of Congress would be necessary for the amendment process, which he predicted could take ten years. "I don't see the path for that," he continued.
The 22nd Amendment's two term restriction has been challenged by legal arguments put out by Trump's friends, notably former adviser Steve Bannon.
Johnson described it as political theater, but Trump has mentioned the concept at rallies and sold "Trump 2028" apparel. "He has a good time with that, trolling the Democrats whose hair is on fire about the very prospect," said Johnson.
Earlier this week, Trump, 79, also mentioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance as possible Republican candidates for the 2028 election.
Trump would be the oldest president in American history if he were to run for office again at the age of 82.
