U.S. President Donald Trump has ruled out the possibility of seeking a third term in office, citing the constitutional limit on presidential tenure.
Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday during his flight from Japan to South Korea, acknowledged that the U.S.
Constitution prevents him from extending his presidency beyond two terms, though he appeared wistful about the restriction.
“If you read it, it’s pretty clear,” Trump said. “I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad.”
His statement followed renewed public discussions among his supporters, some of whom have floated the idea of a constitutional amendment that could allow him to return for another term.
However, Trump’s latest comment appeared to dismiss any notion of pursuing such a move.
Trump Acknowledges Constitutional Limits
The U.S. Constitution’s 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, clearly restricts presidents to two elected terms in office.
Trump, who served from 2017 to 2021 and is currently campaigning for a second term in 2024, admitted that he fully understands those limits.
The former president, known for his often combative stance toward political norms, described the situation as “unfortunate” but did not suggest any plans to challenge the rule.
Speaking to reporters at the U.S. Capitol, Johnson stated, “I don’t see the path for that.”
The Republican leader, a close ally of Trump, explained that they had already discussed the issue and that the former president understands the constitutional boundaries.
“He knows what the Constitution says,” Johnson emphasized. “We’ve talked about it. He’s aware that the two-term limit is firm.”
Despite Trump’s widespread influence within the Republican Party, Johnson’s statement reinforced the legal and political barriers that make a third term impossible under current law.
Trump’s acknowledgment has stirred reactions among his loyal supporters.
Many had speculated that he might find ways to remain influential in U.S. politics even after serving two terms.
Moreover, some far-right commentators had previously suggested that Trump could seek a constitutional amendment.
