You’ve likely seen the headlines: Governor Gavin Newsom claims Donald Trump is serious about running for a third term. But is that even possible? Here’s a breakdown of the situation based on Newsom’s explosive new claims.
First, the legal barrier is clear. The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states that “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” This was passed after Franklin D. Roosevelt won four elections. So, legally, the door is shut for a third elected term.
However, Newsom’s warning is not about a legal run, but about a potential challenge to the law itself. His claim is based on a private Oval Office meeting where he says Trump pointed to FDR’s portrait and discussed a third term “on and on.” This suggests Trump may be looking for a way around, or through, the amendment.
Other signs Newsom points to include “Trump 2028” hats and a lavish White House ballroom plan, which he says show a mindset of permanence. While Trump is constitutionally barred, Newsom’s urgent plea is for Americans to “wake up” to the possibility that Trump may not feel bound by that law, potentially creating an unprecedented constitutional crisis.