Former President Donald Trump has publicly acknowledged the constitutional limit on his time in office, stating he has "a little more than three years" remaining in his current term. This admission comes despite his previous promotion of a potential third term, including the sale of related merchandise.
The 22nd Amendment and a Change of Tune
Trump's recent statement, made on Tuesday 2 December 2025, serves as a direct nod to the 22nd Amendment of the US Constitution. This amendment explicitly prohibits any individual from being elected to the office of president more than twice. In a notable shift from earlier rhetoric, Trump admitted in October that the constitutional rule is "pretty clear" and that he is "not allowed" to run again after his current term concludes.
Merchandise and AI Fuelled Speculation
This newfound clarity contrasts sharply with actions that previously fuelled speculation about a 2028 bid. The former president had actively flirted with the idea of a third term, even going so far as to sell "Trump 2028" branded merchandise to supporters. Furthermore, he shared an AI-generated image promoting a "Trump 2028" campaign, which sparked widespread discussion and debate about his intentions.
Despite Trump's own constitutional concession, the idea of a future bid is being kept alive by some allies. Prominent conservative podcaster and former advisor Steve Bannon continues to suggest that a pathway exists for Trump to pursue the presidency again in 2028. This persistent narrative indicates that the topic of term limits may remain a point of contention within certain factions of his political base.
Implications for the Political Landscape
Trump's explicit acknowledgment of his remaining time in office and the constitutional barrier to a third term brings a measure of certainty to the upcoming US electoral cycle. However, the continued chatter from figures like Bannon demonstrates how the concept of an extended Trump presidency retains symbolic power. The episode underscores the ongoing tension between political ambition and the foundational legal frameworks designed to govern it.
