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Thune Suggests Trump Is ‘Messing With’ Media Over Third Term Remarks

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) expressed his belief on Monday that President Trump is playfully engaging with his critics and the media regarding his comments about potentially seeking a third term in 2028, despite the restrictions of the 22nd Amendment.

During a briefing with reporters, Thune acknowledged Trump’s repeated assertions that he is “not joking” about the prospect of another presidential term, but suggested that Trump is likely leveraging the situation to provoke a reaction and have some fun.

“Not without a change in the Constitution,” Thune remarked when addressing the feasibility of Trump’s claims.

“You guys keep asking the question and I think he’s probably having some fun with it, probably messing with you,” Thune commented, indicating that Trump’s remarks may not be as serious as they seem.

Thune’s comments came shortly after Trump made statements on Sunday implying that there may be alternative avenues for him to pursue a third term. Trump mentioned that many supporters want him to consider a run, but he emphasized that his focus remains on the current administration’s tasks.

“A lot of people want me to do it,” Trump remarked while acknowledging his supporters. “But, I mean, I basically tell them we have a long way to go, you know, it’s very early in the administration. … I’m focused on the current.”

When asked for clarification, Trump reiterated that he was “not joking” and hinted at the existence of “methods which you could do it.” One of the suggestions he floated involved Vice President Vance running for the presidency and then transferring the role back to him, which contradicts stipulations in the 12th Amendment.

“But there are others, too,” Trump mentioned cryptically, choosing not to elaborate on any additional strategies.

It’s important to note that any amendment to the Constitution would require substantial political support: two-thirds of both houses of Congress would need to agree, or two-thirds of states would have to convene a constitutional convention. Additionally, ratification from three-quarters of the states would be necessary to enact any proposed changes.

Source
thehill.com