House Speaker Mike Johnson has put an end to swirling rumors that President Donald Trump could run for a third term in 2028, calling such speculation “impossible under the Constitution.”
Speaking to reporters on Capitol Hill, Johnson clarified that while Trump has jokingly referenced the idea of running again after 2028, there is no legal or political pathway for it to happen.
“I don’t see a way to amend the Constitution. It takes about 10 years to do that,” Johnson said. “There’s simply no path forward for a third term.”
The U.S. Constitution’s 22nd Amendment clearly limits presidents to two elected terms. Changing that rule would require a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate and ratification by three-quarters of U.S. states — a process so lengthy and difficult that it’s considered virtually impossible in the current political climate.
Johnson noted that he has spoken directly with Trump about the issue, describing their discussions as “good-natured.” He suggested that Trump’s comments about serving beyond 2028 were likely meant to provoke political opponents, rather than signal any serious intent to challenge constitutional limits.
“He’s probably trolling the media and his critics,” Johnson said with a smile. “President Trump knows the rules, and he respects them.”
Trump has made similar remarks at campaign rallies, teasing supporters by saying he could “serve longer if the people want it.” However, he has also acknowledged that the Constitution prevents him from doing so, telling one interviewer that trying to run again would be “too tricky — it wouldn’t be right.”
Still, the speculation has sparked conversation among Trump’s supporters and critics alike, especially as the president continues to wield significant influence within the Republican Party. Some right-wing commentators have floated the idea of amending the 22nd Amendment, but legal experts call that notion far-fetched.
Constitutional scholars note that since its ratification in 1951, the 22nd Amendment has been one of the most firmly accepted limitations in American politics. “There is no serious path to repeal,” said political analyst Dr. Andrew Rudalevige. “It would take overwhelming bipartisan consensus — and that doesn’t exist.”
The renewed attention to Trump’s political future comes as his administration faces growing scrutiny over recent military operations abroad and domestic policy battles with Congress. Still, his influence within the Republican base remains strong, with early polling showing Trump far ahead of potential GOP rivals for 2028 — despite the constitutional barrier.
Speaker Johnson’s remarks are the clearest statement yet from congressional leadership that a third Trump term is not on the table. “The Constitution is clear,” Johnson concluded. “Two terms means two terms.”
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