Trump voices doubts about the U.S. Constitution, expressing opposition to the notion of a presidential third term.

Washington Whirlwind: Trump's Tango with the Constitution

Trump voices doubts about the U.S. Constitution, expressing opposition to the notion of a presidential third term.

Here's a Lowdown on Trump's Playful Attitude Towards the US Constitution

Donald Trump, the American president, raising eyebrows once again, tosses the Constitution's significance into a dizzying spin. When confronted by NBC, he pondered aloud, "I don't know if I should respect the Constitution."

The Constitution, the bedrock of American law, enshrines principles like a fair judicial process and fairplay for all on American soil. Yet, in response, Trump quipped, "I have brilliant lawyers working for me, and they'll follow what the Supreme Court has said."

Since his White House re-entry in January, Trump's use of executive power has been a spectacle, surpassing even his previous terms. His arsenal includes over 140 decrees, tightening immigration, scrapping diversity programs, and slicing through federal bureaucracy.

Yet, the president's power isn't limitless. Courts, including the Supreme Court, have frequently halted his decisions, leaving the Republican fuming. The courts have temporarily blocked the 1798 law on "enemy aliens," initially invoked only in wartime.

This move, criticized by human rights groups, intended to expedite the mass expulsion of immigrants accused of being gang members.

When asked if foreigners on American soil deserve due process as the Constitution promises, Trump shrugged, "I'm not a lawyer. I don't know."

Third Time a Charm?

Americans are watching the show of power warily, fearful of an authoritarian drift. During the NBC interview, the journalist questioned, "Are you leading the country towards authoritarianism?"

Trump retorted, "Why don't you ask the question differently? Many people want to come to our country. Many people love Trump." He asserted that Americans had the right to critique him without repercussions, labeling critics as "malicious people."

Trump, known for stirring controversies, particularly aimed at his rival, former Democratic President Joe Biden. He pinned the economic woes on Biden while taking credit for the "good" parts.

Trump seemed to dismiss the idea of a third term, despite hinting at it earlier. "That's not what I'm trying to do," he declared. While he has alluded to methods to achieve a third term and marketed "Trump 2028" merchandise, he now swears by the 2028 election as his end point.

He named Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as potential successors, but added, "It's much too early to say."

The Constitution: Trump's Hurdle

The U.S. Constitution's 22nd Amendment forbids presidential terms beyond two, leaving any attempt by Trump to seek a third term unconstitutional. The 12th Amendment disallows individuals who have completed two terms from running for Vice-Presidency[4]. Modifying the Constitution to enable more terms would demand a sizable congressional majority or a constitutional convention, an unlikely route[4].

Public opinion polls expose widespread opposition to Trump serving a third term, echoing disapproval of unconventional political actions he has pondered, like annexing Canada and Greenland[2]. Republicans are adjusting to the shift towards grooming the next generation of leaders, with Trump mentioning Vance and Rubio as potential successors[3]. The political landscape is reshaping due to Trump's acknowledgment of constitutional limitations, paving the way for prospective Republican candidates[3][5].

Donald Trump's casual attitude toward the Constitution has raised concerns among Americans, with some fearing a potential slide towards authoritarianism.
Trump's NBC interview touched on the topic of a third term, with Trump swearing by the 2028 election as his final run, despite earlier hints of seeking another term.
The Constitution's 22nd Amendment would make another presidential term by Trump unconstitutional, as it currently bars individuals from serving more than two terms.
Trump named Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as potential successors, but the political landscape is shifting towards grooming the next generation of Republican leaders.
Modifying the Constitution to allow more terms would require a significant congressional majority or a constitutional convention, a highly unlikely scenario.