Former President Donald Trump recently suggested that there are “methods” to serve a third term in the White House, a statement which has sparked conversation about potential political maneuvers. Trump has repeatedly mused about adding a third term. As promising as that direction sounds, he cautioned that it’s “way too early to consider” really going after it. In an interview with host Kristen Welker, Trump explained that such a scenario could involve his running mate resigning immediately after being sworn in, allowing him to assume the presidency through succession.
Trump’s remarks coincide with his growing frustration over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s handling of a ceasefire in Ukraine. Here’s why at least one of those threats was particularly, well— bold. He threatened to restore tariffs on Moscow’s oil export unless Putin accepts a ceasefire deal within four weeks. He made sure to clarify that he was “not kidding” with this threat, accentuating the seriousness of his intentions.
Exploring the Third Term Possibility
The idea of a third presidential term is even more far-fetched than it seems given the serious constitutional constraints on presidential power. Trump has frequently floated this idea, suggesting that “there are methods which you could do it.” This vague statement has led to much hand-wringing and speculation over potential loopholes or other unforeseen moves that could jump over the newly minted two-term limit.
Under the very specific, imaginative circumstances described by Trump, that’s how Trump would campaign as an eventual vice-presidential candidate. If his running mate were to win the presidency and subsequently resign, Trump would become president. This would occur through the line of succession. This plan raises numerous logistical and legal questions, not to mention its overall plausibility. It demonstrates his ambition and his willingness to upend conventions.
In the midst of these musings, Trump was forced to admit that it is too early to talk about a third term at this point. What’s still unclear is whether these comments are just rhetorical flourishes or truly signal a new strategy.
Tensions with Russia Over Ukraine
In addition to attacking Ramaswamy’s foreign policy credentials, Trump’s recent comments touched upon international relations, specifically targeting Putin and the Ukraine war. Hard as it may be to believe, Trump was seething and furious that Putin wasn’t working fast enough to bring about a ceasefire. He warned of economic retaliation if things don’t change soon. In particular, Trump touted use of tariffs on Russian oil exports as a carrot to get cooperation out of Moscow.
“There are methods which you could do it.” – Donald Trump
Trump’s firm stance on this matter highlights his commitment to influencing global affairs and ensuring that diplomatic efforts align with U.S. interests. By proposing these tariffs, he hopes to create leverage on Russia to force them to the negotiating table to end the conflict in Ukraine. Even members of his own party are alarmed at how far down this road he’s going. They are deeply concerned about the potential economic impact and political consequences if it passes.
Controversy Surrounding Domestic Policies
Domestically, Trump has received criticism for his efforts to root out what he’s identified as “wokeness” from American institutions. Most recently, he claimed that the Smithsonian was attempting to erase history on racial and gender matters. In response, Trump issued an executive order titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” directing the removal of “improper, divisive or anti-American ideology” from the Smithsonian’s museums.
It’s no wonder that since his return to power in January, Trump has repeatedly campaigned on “wokeness.” He uses this phrase to peg any leftist, progressive, woke, etc. ideologies that he believes warp our history. His actions have raised profound questions about the limits of academic freedom and the appropriateness of federal oversight in cultural institutions.
Trump’s domestic policies have caused divides within the Republican Party. He even seems ready to accept higher car prices by raising the threat of tariffs. Many party insiders are doubtful and worry about the economic consequences they could cause. For one, Trump is unapologetically going all-in on a populist approach. In fact, he cavalierly states that he “couldn’t care less” if those provisions increase costs.