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Fact check: Trump trying to change the constitution to allow him to run as president for longer

Checked on September 18, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The original statement claims that Trump is trying to change the constitution to allow him to run as president for longer. According to [1], Trump is considering a third term, citing his comments that there are 'methods' to achieve this, despite the 22nd Amendment's two-term limit [1]. Additionally, [1] supports the claim that Trump is trying to change the constitution, as he stated in an interview with NBC News that there are methods for doing so and that he is 'not joking' about serving a third term [1]. Other sources, such as [2] and [2], provide context on the 22nd Amendment and its history, while also discussing potential loopholes, such as Trump becoming vice president and then assuming the presidency through succession [2]. Key points to consider are the potential loopholes in the 22nd Amendment and the challenges of amending the Constitution. Some sources, like [3], mention that Rep. Andy Ogles has introduced a House Joint Resolution to amend the Constitution to allow a President to be elected for up to but no more than three terms, which would enable Trump to run for a third term [3].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

  • The process of amending the Constitution is complex and faces significant challenges, as noted by [4], which states that since 1992, no proposed amendments have received the two-thirds vote required in both chambers to move forward to the states for ratification [4].
  • Some sources, such as [5], note that legal experts are divided on the constitutionality of Trump serving a third term, with some arguing that the 12th Amendment's language could pose a roadblock [5].
  • Alternative viewpoints include the possibility of Trump becoming vice president and then president through succession, as discussed by [2] and [2] [2].
  • The original statement lacks context on the historical context of the 22nd Amendment and its purpose, which is to limit the President to two terms, as mentioned by [2] [2].
  • The potential consequences of Trump serving a third term, including the impact on the balance of power in the government and the potential for abuse of power, are not fully explored in the original statement.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading or biased, as it does not provide a comprehensive view of the complexities and challenges involved in amending the Constitution or the potential loopholes in the 22nd Amendment, as discussed by [1], [2], and [1] [1] [2]. Trump and his supporters may benefit from this framing, as it creates a narrative that Trump is actively working to change the Constitution to allow him to run for a third term, which could mobilize his base and create a sense of urgency around the issue [1]. On the other hand, opponents of Trump may also benefit from this framing, as it creates a narrative that Trump is attempting to subvert the Constitution and undermine the democratic process, which could mobilize opposition to his candidacy [2] [5]. Ultimately, a more nuanced and balanced view of the issue is necessary to fully understand the complexities and implications of Trump's potential third term [4].

Want to dive deeper?
What are the current term limits for US presidents?
Can the US Constitution be amended to allow for longer presidential terms?
How many times has the US Constitution been amended to change presidential term limits?
What would be the implications of extending presidential term limits on US democracy?
Which other countries have longer or no presidential term limits?