Former President Donald Trump has acknowledged that the 22nd Amendment to the Constitution prevents him from running for a third term in 2028. Despite frequently teasing a potential comeback and even selling merchandise with a "Trump 2028" theme, Trump stated on Tuesday that the law is clear.
"The law is very strong on that. I’d love to run, but the law is very strong," Trump told reporters on the tarmac after disembarking Air Force One. He noted that he is often asked about a 2028 bid and that people at events shout for him to run, but reiterated, "No, everybody wants me to do it, but the law is very strong."
This statement marks one of Trump's most direct acknowledgments of the constitutional barrier to another presidential run. In the past, he has suggested that "methods" might exist to allow him to seek a third term, telling NBC News last year that he was "not joking" about exploring such possibilities. He has also shared imagery suggesting a third term should be a "reward" for a "stolen" election and that he was "entitled" to another term.
However, Trump has also previously indicated an understanding of the constitutional limitations. Last year, he commented, "I would say that if you read it, it’s pretty clear. I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad, obviously."