Trump Teases 2028 Run; Constitutional Barriers Loom

Aboard Air Force One en route to Tokyo during his Asia trip, President Donald Trump dismissed speculation he would run as vice president in 2028—calling the idea “too cute” and saying it “wouldn’t be right”—while telling reporters he “would love to do it,” stopping short of definitively ruling out pursuing another presidential term. Allies including Steve Bannon have publicly promoted a “plan” for a 2028 Trump return, prompting protests and critical commentary. Constitutional scholars say the 22nd Amendment bars a third elected term and the 12th Amendment may prevent someone ineligible for the presidency from serving as vice president, making legal paths difficult and likely requiring a constitutional amendment. Trump also praised potential Republican successors JD Vance and Marco Rubio, attacked Democrats including Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez and Jasmine Crockett, and boasted of strong poll numbers and his cognitive-test performance, heightening uncertainty within the GOP about 2028 succession.