House Speaker Mike Johnson Rejects Constitutional Path for Trump's Third Term Aspirations

House Speaker Mike Johnson has addressed President Donald Trump's contemplations about a potential third term, clearly stating constitutional limitations. According to Johnson, despite their discussions on this matter, there is no constitutional pathway for such an endeavor.

"I don't see a path for that," Johnson declared during his Capitol press conference, amidst the ongoing federal government shutdown reaching its 28th day.

The Republican Speaker emphasized that Trump comprehends these constitutional boundaries, noting, "He and I have talked about the constrictions of the Constitution."

Johnson elaborated on how the 22nd Amendment explicitly prohibits a third presidential term, and modifying this through a constitutional amendment would require an extensive process spanning potentially a decade, with necessary approvals from states and congressional votes.

"But I can tell you that we are not going to take our foot off the gas pedal," Johnson asserted. "We're going to deliver for the American people, and we've got a great run ahead of us — we're going to have four strong years."

These comments come as President Trump, merely ten months into his second term, continues testing presidential powers in unprecedented ways while repeatedly suggesting extending his White House tenure.

"Trump 2028" hats have been distributed as souvenirs to lawmakers and White House visitors, while Stephen Bannon, Trump's former 2016 campaign manager and current podcaster, has revived discussions about a potential third Trump term.

When questioned by reporters aboard Air Force One during his Japan trip, Trump expressed enthusiasm for another run: "I would love to do it."

However, Trump also acknowledged the Republican Party has strong candidates for the next presidential election, mentioning Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who accompanied him on the trip, and Vice President JD Vance, who met with senators at the Capitol.

"All I can tell you is we have a great group of people," Trump stated.

When pressed about ruling out a third-term bid or potentially running as vice president (which would be constitutionally permissible) and then assuming the presidency, Trump dismissed the latter strategy as "too cute" and inappropriate.

"You'd be allowed to do that, but I wouldn't do that," he clarified. "The people wouldn't like that — it's too cute — it wouldn't be right."

These discussions occur as Trump demonstrates the expansive reach of presidential authority through actions like deploying National Guard troops to cities against several governors' wishes, accepting substantial private donations for military funding and White House renovations, and making unilateral decisions during the government shutdown.

Johnson, who rose to his speakership position with Trump's support, dismissed concerns about a potential third term as overreactions from the president's critics, suggesting, "He has a good time with that, trolling the Democrats."