• Former President Donald Trump has hinted at a potential third presidential term, challenging the 22nd Amendment, which limits individuals to two terms.
• Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles has proposed a resolution allowing up to three non-consecutive terms, but it faces significant constitutional and political hurdles.
• Despite legal barriers, Trump allies remain optimistic, with discussions fueling debates on constitutional norms and democratic principles.

Former President Donald Trump has hinted at exploring a potential third presidential term, sparking debate over constitutional boundaries and political ambitions. Such a move would directly challenge the 22nd Amendment, which bars individuals from being elected president more than twice, creating a significant constitutional and political hurdle.

Constitutional Roadblocks Loom Large

The 22nd Amendment states, “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” While Mr. Trump has floated the idea in interviews, including a recent conversation with NBC News where he confirmed, “No, no, I’m not joking,” amending the Constitution would require an uphill battle. Changing this amendment demands a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate, followed by ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures, or 38 states. Such a feat has not been accomplished since 1971.

Sparks Within Congress

Tennessee Republican Rep. Andy Ogles has already introduced a resolution proposing an amendment to allow up to three non-consecutive presidential terms. Notably, this proposal appears tailored specifically to Mr. Trump, excluding other former presidents like Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. However, with Democrats holding enough seats to block progress in both chambers and controlling 19 state legislatures, the resolution’s chances of advancing are slim to none.

Supporters Double Down

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Despite these challenges, Trump allies, including former White House strategist Steve Bannon, remain optimistic about his political future. Bannon recently voiced confidence that Trump will run and win in 2028, calling him a once-in-a-century political figure. Meanwhile, MAGA supporters continue to promote creative strategies, including Trump running as vice president and ascending to the presidency after a resignation. However, this avenue is constitutionally barred under the 12th Amendment, which states, “No person constitutionally ineligible to the office of President shall be eligible to that of Vice-President of the United States.”

Historical Context and Political Norms

Mr. Trump’s open consideration of a third term contrasts sharply with past presidential norms. Critics argue this reflects his history of testing constitutional boundaries and rejecting political conventions, as seen during his refusal to accept the 2020 election results. Notably, the idea of extending presidential terms has historically faced bipartisan resistance due to fears of consolidating power and undermining democratic principles.

What Happens Next?

While Trump’s potential third-term bid is unlikely to succeed under current legal constraints, his statements continue to galvanize his base and drive political discourse. As America’s political landscape evolves, this discussion underscores the importance of constitutional checks and balances in navigating challenges to established norms.

Request for Comment

The Dupree Report has reached out to Rep. Andy Ogles and constitutional law experts for comments on the feasibility of such amendments and their implications for U.S. democracy. Their insights will be shared in forthcoming updates.

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