Bannon Claims Trump Could Serve a Third Term

Steve Bannon, former senior advisor to Donald Trump, believes the GOP has “five or six alternatives” to get Trump a third term in the White House. His claim adds fuel to ongoing speculation about Trump’s long-term political ambitions.

Trump Jokes About Third Term Early On

Soon after becoming the 47th president, Trump joked about a third term—even though the U.S. Constitution prohibits it. The 22nd Amendment clearly limits presidents to two terms.

Calls to Change the Constitution

Republican Representative Andy Ogles floated the idea of amending the 22nd Amendment. He argued the country needs to “sustain the bold leadership” that Trump offers. But Bannon thinks a constitutional amendment might not be necessary at all.

Bannon’s Bold Prediction

Speaking to MSNBC, Bannon said:

“I haven’t said we’re going to amend the constitution. We’re working on five or six alternatives that would let President Trump run again. Frankly, I think four or five of them will work.”

He went further, confidently predicting:

“On the afternoon of January 20th, 2029, Donald Trump will be president for a third term.”

Bannon also revealed that Republicans plan to announce their strategy closer to the 2026 midterm elections.

Constitutional Roadblocks Remain

Despite Bannon’s claims, the Constitution seems clear. The 22nd Amendment states:

• No one can be elected president more than twice.

• If someone serves more than two years of another president’s term, they can only be elected once more.

The amendment also specifies that any changes require approval by three-fourths of the state legislatures within seven years of the proposal.

Is There a Loophole?

Some believe there may be a rare legal workaround. Trump himself hinted last month that a “loophole” might exist. However, the National Constitution Center notes the 22nd Amendment “directly restricts” Trump from running again. At most, he might serve temporarily in a rare scenario.

What’s Next?

The GOP has yet to reveal concrete details. With Bannon hinting at multiple strategies and Trump teasing possibilities, all eyes now turn to 2026. Whether this leads to a political first—or just more headlines—remains to be seen.